Zhanna Andreasian on the Prohibition of Military-Patriotic Events in Schools

The rumors circulating that the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports has prohibited and is prohibiting the conduct of military-patriotic events in schools are disinformation and do not reflect reality. In a conversation with Armenpress, Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Zhanna Andreasian stated:

“Since the beginning of this year, we have approved more than 900 group programs, guaranteed in schools, a significant part of which is related to military-patriotic military training. There has been no discussion or any program aimed at the cessation or suspension of military-patriotic groups or various courses.”

The minister added that the information that has been deliberately distorted was related to armed structures and military units not being stationed in school buildings or adjacent educational institutions.

“In 2017, our country joined the Safe Schools Declaration, which establishes clear norms. We all understand that in various situations, when armed structures are stationed in educational institutions, buildings, or in close proximity, they become targets. The aim is to enhance the safety of educational institutions. There are countries, such as Azerbaijan, that station military units adjacent to educational institutions in order to direct accusations in case of any situation,” Andreasian clarified.

The minister emphasized that compliance with this norm stems from the interests of ensuring the safety of schools, kindergartens, and educational institutions.