Armenian National Assembly Rejects Free Education for 3rd Degree Disabled Individuals

The Armenian National Assembly voted against the proposal from the 'Enlightened Armenia' faction that aimed to provide individuals with 3rd degree disability status the opportunity to study for free at universities and vocational educational institutions.

The draft law was rejected with 41 votes in favor, 10 against, and 62 abstentions.

Lilit Makunts, the leader of the 'My Step' faction, noted that the exact number of beneficiaries had not been discussed, and the potential impact on the budget was not considered. Taking this into account, Makunts suggested her colleagues abstain from voting at this time.

According to the current regulations, individuals with 1st and 2nd degree disabilities who receive positive evaluations in entrance exams are admitted to universities and study free of charge. Those studying under a paid system who obtain a 1st or 2nd degree disability during their studies also transition to the free system.

Children recognized as disabled from a young age also study under the free system without any specification of the degree of disability, hence all disabled individuals can study within the framework of state funding.

Meanwhile, students who acquire 3rd degree disability during their studies are excluded from the possibility of studying with state funding.