Ministry of Education on Organization of the Educational Process

A meeting was held at the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports of Armenia to discuss the epidemiological situation related to the coronavirus and to determine possible options for organizing the educational process in the new academic year. The meeting was attended by the Acting Minister of Education, Vahram Dumanyan, and the Acting Minister of Health, Anahit Avanesyan. Also present were Deputy Ministers of Education and Science Zhanna Andreasian and Karen T’rtchunyan, as well as First Deputy Minister of Health Lena Nanushyan.

The participants emphasized that decisions regarding the organization of the educational process should be mutually beneficial for both the educational and healthcare sectors. Acting Minister Vahram Dumanyan stated, “Undoubtedly, we must take into account the existing epidemiological situation in the republic and accordingly find solutions to ensure proper education at all levels.”

Acting Minister Anahit Avanesyan presented the current dynamics of the coronavirus situation and vaccination processes in Armenia and the stance on organizing the educational process related to it: “It is clear that students must not be deprived of education for months, but we must also not lose vigilance. This is the situation worldwide. The World Health Organization calls for caution regarding the easing of anti-epidemic restrictions. To organize the educational process in the current format, a sufficient level of vaccinations is essential.”

The parties agreed that for organizing the educational process in the current format and without separating classes, the vaccination level among staff of educational institutions should be at least 60-70%.

The discussion also addressed the sanitary and epidemiological requirements that must be met to organize the educational process. Deputy Minister Zhanna Andreasian noted that the ministry is actively working with international partners to provide schools with the necessary resources: “Schools will receive all materials required to maintain anti-epidemic rules. There will be no issues in this regard.”

The participants also explored possibilities for organizing the vaccination process in educational institutions. Anahit Avanesyan mentioned that the Ministry of Health is ready to provide necessary resources if staff members express interest.

Additionally, the meeting covered options for enhancing the quality of programs in primary and secondary vocational educational institutions that implement medical educational programs, ensuring their compliance with the current demands of the healthcare system. The parties agreed to discuss all possible options and proposals to reach a final and effective decision on these matters.