The solemn opening ceremony of the 2013 “Diaspora Summer School” Program was held at the Youth Center in Tsakhkadzor on July 9^th. The program is organized by the RA Ministry of Diaspora.

This year, the program will be held with the participation of 210 Diaspora Armenians from more than 25 countries around the world.

Due to the war in Syria, Aleppo-based Alex Kalayjian won’t be able to participate in the course for Diaspora Armenian journalists, reports the Department of Media and Public Relations at the RA Ministry of Diaspora to “Hayern Aysor”.

We present Alex Kalayjian’s letter in its entirety:

“My dears, unfortunately, I won’t be able to participate in the courses for Diaspora Armenian journalists because, as you know, I live in Aleppo, which is surrounded by terrorists and all the roads have been closed down. There is no bus or airplane that can bring me to Armenia. To make a long story short, nobody can leave the city or go anywhere.

The people are seriously hungry and have trouble earning a living.

I thank you in advance and especially Mrs. Hranush Hakobyan for providing me with the opportunity to participate in these courses.”

The “Diaspora Summer School” Program comprises an Armenian language instruction course and professional training course for Diaspora Armenian professionals and has been held for the past two years already.

The program includes five courses, including Advanced Armenian Language Courses (8 July-2 August), Training Courses for Diaspora Armenian Teachers (15 July-2 August), a Course for Young Diaspora Armenian Leaders (22 July-2 August), a Course for Diaspora Armenian Journalists (22 July-2 August) and an Armenian Song and Dance Course (24 July-2 August).