The “National Awareness Day” of the Erasmus+ DeSIRe Project Held at Vanadzor State University

On September 25, 2025, Vanadzor State University named after Hovhannes Tumanyan successfully hosted the “National Awareness Day” (NAD2) within the framework of the Erasmus+ Capacity Building project DeSIRe.

The event brought together students, faculty members, representatives of local authorities, employers, and associated project partners, creating a platform to raise awareness about the project’s objectives, ongoing activities, and achieved results. It also emphasized the importance of youth engagement and skills development initiatives in higher education, reinforcing the project’s vision to promote inclusive and innovative learning environments.

Vanadzor State University students Zemfira Beglaryan and Karine Mkhitaryan were the moderators of the event, once again demonstrating active involvement of students in project-related initiatives.

A video presentation followed, showcasing a flash mob organized on September 23 jointly by Vanadzor State University and the NGO “Center,” which highlighted a vibrant youth-led initiative.

The official opening speech was delivered by Acting Rector of Vanadzor State University, Professor Rustam Saakyan, who emphasized the importance of international cooperation, effective partnerships between universities, communities, and employers, as well as student-centered learning based on the development of soft skills that enhance students’ career prospects and competitiveness in a dynamic labor market.

Advisor to the Head of Vanadzor Community, Arman Bernetsyan, noted the role of higher education in regional development and stressed the impact of educational initiatives on the growth of the region.

After the welcoming remarks, DeSIRe Project Coordinator Lusik Vardanyan gave a brief presentation summarizing the project’s goals, work packages, and expected outcomes. In her speech, she placed particular emphasis on strengthening soft skills, creating inclusive learning environments, and promoting innovative approaches in partner institutions.

One of the student-centered initiatives—a walkathon held on September 22—was presented through a video demonstrating how the project encourages collaboration and teamwork.

DeSIRe Project Co-Coordinator Gohar Dokholyan presented a summary report on in-person and online training sessions conducted within EU, Armenian, and Georgian partner institutions.

During the event, a video prepared by lecturers who had completed training under the project was also shown, highlighting the experience and skills they had gained.

The event concluded with a panel discussion moderated by Anna Khachatryan, Head of the Quality Assurance Center of Vanadzor State University. The discussion brought together students, academic staff, employers, and associated partners, who emphasized the practical value of the DeSIRe project, its importance for higher education reforms, and the need to strengthen cooperation between universities and the labor market.

During the subsequent Q&A session, participants had the opportunity to share their views, ask questions, and present suggestions, fostering an interactive dialogue among stakeholders.