The 7^th International Conference of the Armenian International Women’s Association continued at Manoogian Hall of the American University of Armenia with the participation of RA Minister of Diaspora Hranush Hakobyan on October 11.

AUA President Armen Der Kiureghian gave an opening speech, after which Alexandra Pittman gave a speech on How NGOS in Armenia Advance Women’s Rights via the Internet.

Sarah Lia Whitson delivered a speech on Women’s Rights in the Middle East and North Africa.

The speeches were followed by the opening ceremony of the AUA Student Lounge sponsored by Armenian American writer, culturologist Alice Navasargian.

RA Minister of Diaspora Hranush Hakobyan greeted the gathered and particularly mentioned: “I’m pleased with the fact that the conference is continuing at the American University of Armenia, which was established at the most difficult moment for the Armenian nation and became the first to introduce the three-year system of education in Armenia, setting a brilliant example for Armenia’s universities. The American University of Armenia advanced due to its founder Mihram Aghababian, who did everything he could to introduce the system of Western education and management in Armenia.

The Armenian government also makes great contributions to the education of young Armenians. Young Armenians need to be competitive in any country. Benefactors, especially women benefactors play an unforgettable role in that. One of the unforgettable acts is the creation of this Student Lounge, which Alice Navasargian donated to AUA.”

The minister granted the Boghos Nubar Medal to Alice Navasargian for her great contributions to the preservation of the Armenian identity and her charity acts.

Expressing gratitude for the high award and appreciation, Alice Navasargian said: “I express my deep gratitude. This isn’t a big act, but I did it cordially. Your appreciation is the greatest gift for me.”

Elizabeth Agbabian presented Alice Navasargian the writer, public figure and cultural figure and expressed her congratulatory remarks.

Arpie Balian moderated the second panel session on The Role of Armenian Women in a Globalized World.

Judy Norsigian moderated the session on Meeting Challenges in Women’s Health for Women in Armenia.

Silva Katchiguian moderated the panel session on NGOs in Action in Armenia.

The third day of the conference ended with a discussion on Judith Boyajian’s book Women of Ararat.

The participants of the conference also watched Suzanne Khardalian’s film Grandma’s Tattoos.

The 7^th International Conference of the Armenian International Women’s Association will draw to an end on October 12.