Modernized setting for high-quality education ensuring inclusive education, safe environment, and auditoriums with practical solutions

At Yerevan State University, alongside aligning educational programs with modern demands and ensuring students are better positioned in the labor market, efforts are also underway to modernize building facilities and improve infrastructure with practical solutions. Inclusive education, a safe environment, laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and newly renovated and furnished auditoriums—much of this work has already been completed, and large-scale projects lie ahead.

Arman Malkhasyan, Vice-Rector for General Affairs at YSU, presented the environmental improvements implemented at YSU in 2024 and discussed the planned initiatives outlined in the university's new 2025-2030 strategic development plan.

Safe Environment

In 2024, all university laboratories, the library—including the book storage area—and all fire-hazardous zones were equipped with new fire protection systems connected to the SOS system. This integration ensures that both YSU and the RA Ministry of Emergency Situations receive immediate alerts in case of danger.

As part of the university's new strategic development plan, we have also planned to modernize the video surveillance systems, as the existing ones were installed over 12 years ago and no longer provide the required quality.

Currently, the design phase for installing a new surveillance system across all YSU buildings and outdoor areas is underway. Additionally, surveillance cameras will be installed in 50 of the university’s 550 auditoriums.

State-of-the-Art Laboratories for Modern Scientific Experiments

With YSU’s financial resources, many laboratories—primarily those at the Institute of Physics, as well as the Faculties of Biology and Chemistry— have been renovated and equipped. These upgraded spaces now facilitate advanced scientific experiments, including collaborative research with international scholars.

With the support of partners, the first floor of the Faculty of Mathematics and Mechanics has undergone major renovations. This floor also houses the remote laboratory of Ghent Analysis & PDE Center. Currently, YSU is funding the renovation of the faculty’s second floor, which will soon be fully furnished.

The vivarium of the Faculty of Biology has been renovated and equipped with modern devices to ensure the proper care of animals and the precise execution of experiments.

Nearly 90 percent of the explosive materials from the Faculty of Chemistry have been relocated to a specially designed storage facility. Meanwhile, the faculty’s laboratories and chairs now store only the amount of experimental materials necessary for each day’s educational program.

The new strategy includes plans to renovate six teaching laboratories at the Institute of Physics and the Faculty of Chemistry. Notably, upon the completion of these efforts, the Faculty of Chemistry will no longer have any unrenovated teaching laboratories.

Education for All

The two elevators in YSU Library and the central building have been replaced, successfully tested, and will be operational soon. These elevators are also designed to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments.

To ensure inclusive education at the university and support students with special educational needs, various programs are continuously being implemented. By identifying needs and challenges, several initiatives have already been carried out. Electronic and mechanical elevators, as well as ramps, have been installed in different YSU buildings, allowing students with disabilities to move freely and fully participate in university life. Specifically, electronic elevators have been installed in the central, third, and seventh buildings (housing the Institute of Physics and the Faculties of Mathematics and Mechanics, Oriental Studies, Russian Philology, Journalism, and European Languages and Communication), with additional ramps placed inside the buildings. In the near future, a mechanical elevator will also be installed in the fifth building (Faculty of Biology), along with clear markings and necessary furnishings.

As for YSU building located at 52a Abovyan Street, it is important to note that it is a historical and cultural monument, and any modifications require approval from the relevant authorities. However, a solution is also close to being found in this case. Considering that the stairs are too narrow for ramps, the possibility of installing an elevator is currently under discussion.

Reading-Friendly Environment and Comfortable Auditoriums

With the efforts of the Izmirlian Foundation, the large reading hall of YSU Library has been fully renovated and furnished with the university’s resources. The modernized and comfortable environment allows students to dedicate more time to professional reading.

With the support of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Armenia, the Ferdowsi Hall at the Chair of Iranian Studies has been completely renovated.

In 2024, the acquisition of smart boards has continued, considering the high demand for education using the latest technologies.

At YSU buildings located at 52a Abovyan Street, shared-use areas—including hallways, auditoriums, and restrooms—have been renovated.

As part of the university’s new strategic development plan, ten auditoriums will also be furnished with essential equipment and fitted with built-in storage for outerwear and other necessities. Additionally, this year, five exam rooms will be renovated and fully equipped.

Extracurricular Leisure for Students

A self-development and intellectual leisure center will be built near YSU 8th building, providing students with a space for personal growth and intellectual engagement.

As for student dining on campus, the student cafe adjacent to YSU 7th building reopened in 2024, featuring a unique design and a distinctive blend of colors. This vibrant youth-oriented space has already attracted many visitors.

Structural Changes at the University

The spaces of the two cafes operating inside YSU central building will be renovated and repurposed as workspaces.

Additionally, the strategic plan includes the improvement of the garden adjacent to the central building. We also hope to commence the construction of YSU STEM High School at 1 Kievyan Street this year.

In 2024, YSU's large-scale renovation efforts have also included the renovation and furnishing of the Institute of Armenian Studies. Additionally, outdoor lighting has been installed at YSU building located at 52a Abovyan Street, and external storage facilities have been reconstructed and renovated.

To streamline the asset disposal process, a new storage facility has been built in the parking area, where decommissioned assets are temporarily stored before being sold.

Memorial Park

With the support of its partners, YSU is constructing a Memorial Park dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives in wars. Beyond serving as a tribute to the fallen heroes, the park will also provide a serene space for students to relax and take walks.