Ghent University’s delegation visits YSU with the view to strengthening cooperation

The meeting provided an opportunity not only to discuss the implementation of joint research programs but also to enhance the existing collaborative ties.

YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan noted, "During our discussions with our partners, we learned that they have an excellent training center, one of the best in Europe. This could be an excellent opportunity for our professors, which is central to our interests. In addition to the fields we plan to explore in the future, we will also discuss the programs that could be carried out within the framework of this cooperation. From an academic perspective, this holds significant importance for us." He also highlighted YSU's new strategic plan for 2025-2030, one of the primary objectives of which is the continuous development of human capital.

Emphasizing the importance of international cooperation, YSU rector further stated, "We place significant importance on involving experts from different countries and various fields in our educational process. To that end, we regularly host guest professors, conduct research under grant programs, and implement various projects. I am convinced that these collaborations will be mutually beneficial and fruitful."

The Ambassador of Belgium to Armenia, Eric De Muynck, stressed that this meeting was an opportunity to continue and expand the bilateral ties. 

"The Embassy of Belgium in Armenia was established over a year ago. Our goal and mission are to develop and strengthen the cooperative relations between Armenia and Belgium. We are working in numerous sectors and on various topics. I would also like to mention that we have begun cooperation between technological companies in Belgium and Armenia. This visit, organized by Ghent University, provides an excellent opportunity to continue and expand our current cooperation. I believe this process will allow us to discover new avenues of partnership between YSU and Ghent University. We are always ready to collaborate," the ambassador said.

Recognizing the significance of the collaboration between the two universities, Ghent University’s vice-rector emphasized, "We are here with a group of researchers and specialists interested in cooperating with Yerevan State University. Ghent University already has collaborations with YSU, including joint research programs and even remote laboratories. Today, we wish to explore new opportunities and see how we can expand our cooperation in various sectors. Our goal is to build dialogue and mutual trust, which will undoubtedly lay the foundation for new academic and scientific achievements."

During the meeting, both sides presented information about their universities and research programs, highlighting that such meetings significantly contribute to the development of international partnerships that can be beneficial for both students and academic staff.

Anna Sashchenko, Policy Advisor in the International Relations Office at Ghent University and Eureast Platform Coordinator, shared that they had met with YSU academic staff and researchers. She emphasized the delegation’s commitment to establishing new collaborations with partners, despite the already established ties in various fields.

"Our group consists of professors specializing in different areas, including law, geography, political and social sciences, and natural sciences. I hope that during these discussions, they will outline new avenues for cooperation. Personal interactions always help to develop strong collaborative relationships," she remarked.

Professors from various faculties of Ghent University also engaged in discussions with their counterparts from YSU, focusing on potential cooperation in various fields of education, science, and research.