Chinese students choose Armenian studies as their area of specialization

At the university, Chinese students are studying as part of the agreement signed between the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Armenia and the Ministry of Education of China. 

After studying history at Heihe College, Dai Ruibing decided to specialize in Armenian studies. According to her, one of the reasons for choosing YSU is the university's ancient history and its large student community.

"I wanted to come to YSU to study the history and traditions of Armenia in greater depth. In the future, I plan to work in the Chinese government in the field of diplomatic relations," she said.

Dai Ruibing emphasized that China’s ties with Armenia are well-developed, spanning from diplomatic relations to the establishment of the Confucius Institute in Yerevan. Referring to the partnership between the two countries, she noted, "It is worth mentioning that Armenian is taught in several universities in China. I really like Armenia, and I plan to share the traditions and values of the Armenian people with my Chinese acquaintances after gaining new knowledge in the field of Armenian studies. I hope that, as the peoples of the two countries get to know each other better, they will strengthen their ties."

Dai Ruibing hopes that within a year, she will be able to read Armenian literature and communicate fluently in Armenian. By the way, she introduces herself at the university as Anush, because the name has a similar meaning to her Chinese name.

Xu Jiaxue, a graduate of Harbin University of Science and Technology, introduces herself at YSU as Dzyunik, which is equivalent to the meaning of her Chinese name. She does not find any significant differences in the organization of education at Harbin University of Science and Technology and Yerevan State University. Speaking about the kind and friendly attitude of Armenian professors and students, she said, "It is very interesting to study alongside Armenian students. I really appreciate that they are always ready to help when needed. Before coming to Armenia, I was already familiar with its history, and upon arriving here, I discovered that Armenia is also a very beautiful country."

Students from China will study for two years in the "Armenian Studies" master's educational program. 

Arman Yeghiazaryan, the program coordinator, spoke about the program, noting that when it was launched 10 years ago, its primary goal was to train teachers and school directors for schools in the Diaspora. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the interest of Chinese students in Armenian studies.

"When we began promoting the features of our educational program three years ago, we noticed significant interest from Chinese students. Within the framework of this program, students study academic disciplines related to Armenia, including its history, language, literature, culture, and diaspora," emphasized Arman Yeghiazaryan.

Before enrolling in the master's program, Chinese students take preparatory courses in the Armenian language at YSU. After admission, they also acquire advanced knowledge in modern Armenian, classical Armenian (Grabar), and Western Armenian. Arman Yeghiazaryan emphasized that during the first year, professors provide special attention to Chinese students, making subjects taught in Armenian more accessible. After one year, they fully participate in the classes and no longer need significant support in their studies." 

Arman Yeghiazaryan added that one of the students who came from China three years ago, having already completed the "Armenian Studies" master's educational program, is currently enrolled in postgraduate studies at YSU and is working on a PhD thesis under his supervision, focusing on Armenian-Chinese cultural ties.