A Difficult Path Awaits Us Together: Araik Harutyunyan's Statement

The Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport, Araik Harutyunyan, made the following post on his Facebook page:

“Dear students, esteemed teachers and lecturers, responsible individuals in the education sector, parents,
I congratulate all of us on the occasion of September 1, Knowledge Day.

The past academic year was not easy for us. Unexpected challenges, arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, brought forth new problems and the urgent necessity to find new solutions.

Perhaps this is why today there is a lack of children's noise and vibrancy in the schoolyards, but the pandemic cannot take away our determination to ensure the right to education. Our students will celebrate the symbolic 'September 1' in 14 days.

I also want to thank all of you, especially teachers. Dear educators, dedicated individuals, who found the strength and enthusiasm to work in extraordinary conditions over the past six months and successfully conclude the academic year.

A difficult path awaits us together; we must ensure the continuity of the educational process, conduct classes diligently, and quickly adapt to changing circumstances. I wish that the new academic year will be a successful start toward victory and a return to normalcy.

Dear students, you are our allies and support. I urge you to adopt a responsible attitude, follow all sanitary and hygienic requirements, and support both your teachers and older family members in overcoming this challenge our nation faces as soon as possible, winning this battle.

Ultimately, the goal of education is one: to shape knowledgeable and law-abiding citizens, patriotic and creative individuals. I call upon you during these days to care not only for yourselves but also for your classmates and teachers, to redouble efforts toward overcoming difficulties and effectively solving problems for the sake of Armenia's future, for the welfare and safe life of each of us.

Again, I congratulate you all; may the light and strength of knowledge accompany us all.”