On July 21, the participants of the Training Course for Teachers of Armenian Language and History and Organizers of Education (part of the “Diaspora” Summer School Program of the RA Ministry of Diaspora) visited Vazgen I School #168 in Yerevan.

As reported Hayern Aysor, the Diaspora Armenian teachers were greeted with salt and bread, after which the staff gave the guests a tour and introduced them to the school’s daily activities.

This visit was also interesting in the sense that, whereas the staff used to visit the participating teachers and talk about their school, programs and daily activities, this time the meeting was more practical and helped the teachers become familiar with the school’s daily activities on the site.

The school had organized a small event for the Diaspora Armenian teachers. In her welcoming remarks, Principal Sona Galstyan stated that the school is always willing to collaborate with the Ministry of Diaspora and that the doors of the school will always be open for Diaspora Armenian teachers.

Russia-based Armenian teacher Seda Khachatryan expressed her words of gratitude and stated that it was pleasant and touching to be at the school and be received so cordially.

After the event, the teachers headed towards a classroom where they attended an open lesson. During the open lesson, the Diaspora Armenian teachers were introduced to the school’s staff. They all sang songs, recited poems and said a prayer together.

As reported Hayern Aysor, Head of the Division for Scientific and Educational Programs of the Department of All-Armenian Programs at the RA Ministry of Diaspora Sirvard Hambaryan suggested that the teachers consider and apply to have their respective schools become sister schools with the schools in Armenia, adding that this would provide the schools with the opportunity to establish closer ties, as well as develop joint programs and hold events.

At the end of the meeting, the school’s staff hosted a small reception for the Diaspora Armenian guests, making the meeting more intimate and interesting.

Lusine Grigoryan

Volunteer for the “Diaspora” Summer School Program, student of the Department of Diaspora Studies of the Faculty of History at Yerevan State University