On October 16, the Day of the Armenian Press, the YSU Faculty of Journalism celebrated its 25th anniversary, alongside the 230th anniversary of the first Armenian printed periodical, "Azdarar".
The event was attended by YSU Vice-Rectors Elina Asriyan and Mikayel Hovhannisyan, Kern Fowler-Watt, Professor of Journalism and Global Narratives from Bournemouth University, Dean of the Journalism Faculty Naghash Martirosyan, along with faculty members and students.
Elina Asriyan, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at YSU, congratulated the faculty members and students, wishing them continued success. She highlighted the achievements of the faculty, noting that these accomplishments provide a solid foundation for future progress and remaining competitive and in demand.
Naghash Martirosyan, Dean of the Journalism Faculty, reflecting on the achievements of the past 25 years, stated: "As we close the chapter on the 25th year and begin the 26th, it’s important to acknowledge the zealous support from the management staff of Yerevan State University. In partnership with the Public Television of Armenia and BBC Media Action, our TV and radio studios have been newly furnished, strengthening the effective cooperation between the university and the labor market. The unprecedented transformations in information and communication technologies, along with the tools of artificial intelligence that are becoming more accessible every day, demand new content and styles of work. This will ensure that we remain competitive and in demand in the future."
The dean expressed his satisfaction with the work accomplished, emphasizing, "The past 25 years have each been unique, and that's a good thing... The faculty has always moved forward, as they say, without 'path addiction'."
Professor Davit Petrosyan, Head of the New Media and Communication Chair, emphasized in his speech, "I am sure that the creators of today’s press, particularly the 25-year-old Journalism Faculty, will remain committed to the great mission of preserving national identity and educating future generations. This mission began a qualitatively new phase in Armenian history with Harutyun Shmavonyan's 'Azdarar'."
Kern Fowler-Watt, Professor of Journalism and Global Narratives from Bournemouth University, highlighted the effective cooperation between the YSU Journalism Faculty and BBC Media Action in his welcome speech. He noted that a joint initiative is planned for the spring of 2025 to establish a fact-checking laboratory at the faculty.
At the end of the event, students from the YSU Cultural Center gave a performance, that perfectly complemented the festive atmosphere of the day.
