Geologists’ Day marked by opening of an interactive classroom at YSU

The interactive classroom features modern solutions and showcases samples of metallic mineral resources used in industry, mechanical engineering, and cutting-edge technologies, as well as paleontological specimens and materials utilized in construction, chemical industries, and other sectors.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technical facilities, the classroom provides students with the opportunity to gain both theoretical and practical knowledge. Through the use of an interactive display, students can explore the Earth's structure in depth, study past and potential geological events, and analyze the structural properties of rocks and minerals using advanced equipment. With the aid of virtual reality headsets, they can also "enter" a mining site to observe mining operations.

YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan emphasized the long-standing importance of strengthening the link between business and education, noting that one cannot thrive without the other, and that collaborations such as this are a testament to that principle.

"Business invests in education, while the university provides high-quality specialists to contribute to business prosperity. I am convinced that such collaborations with various companies will continue and yield fruitful results. I believe initiatives like this will stimulate the growth and advancement of the Faculty of Geography and Geology," the rector noted, highlighting the critical role of the mining industry as one of the main sectors of Armenia’s economy.

Hovhannes Hovhannisyan also mentioned that YSU has adopted a strategic objective to create a new educational environment in the coming years in order to ensure higher-quality education, and that the geology profession is expected to regain its former prestige and stature.

Mkrtich Karapetyan, son of the esteemed geologist Gagik Karapetyan and co-founder of Norgeo LLC, highlighted that geology plays an equally vital role not only in the exploration, discovery, and assessment of mineral resources but also in disaster management and various other processes. He noted that their contribution to the university is also aimed at fostering the development of Armenia’s economy.

Head of Environmental Protection and Mining Inspection Body Hovhannes Martirosyan also mentioned that they have had quite successful cooperation with the Faculty of Geography and Geology. For the past two years, the staff of the inspectorate has been participating in various educational programs at the faculty, which has contributed to enhancing their educational level. Hovhannes Martirosyan emphasized that this cooperation with the faculty will continue.

Director of Norgeo company Davit Davtyan emphasized that the opening of the interactive classroom attests to their commitment and support for students in the field. 
"Gagik Karapetyan's work has inspired many. We believe in the great potential of students and eagerly await the future development of the field," he said

Dean of the Faculty of Geography Sargis Kelyan, congratulating everyone on the occasion of Geologists’ Day, highlighted that this is the profession that shapes our conscious connection to the Earth, helping us to see not only its material structure but also to understand its vital processes and significance on a deeper level.  

"The geologist profession is of great importance for the sustainable development of our country, particularly in the fields of industry, energy, natural disasters, environmental protection, and innovative technologies. In Armenia, where mining is one of the main components of the economy, geologists play a key role. They are the ones who meticulously study the Earth's crust, discovering mineral deposits, assessing their economic significance, and developing extraction methods," he stated.

The dean also emphasized that the knowledge and experience of geologists not only enhance the development of mining but also play a decisive role in the rational management of natural resources, environmental protection, and sustainable human development. 
"Geology also plays a crucial role in preventing climate change and forecasting natural disasters, which holds significant scientific, social, economic, and strategic importance," he added

Sargis Kelyan pointed out that the faculty has long served as a crucial scientific center, training highly qualified specialists in geological, mining, environmental sciences, and other fields. 
"This is made possible by a dedicated and well-versed academic staff, as well as the long-standing collaborations with governmental bodies, private companies, and international organizations," he said.

The event featured presentations from several notable speakers. Vardan Jhanyan, First Deputy Director General of ZCMC and President of the Union of Miners and Metallurgists of Armenia, delivered a report on the topic "The Potential and Prospects of the Mining Industry in the Context of Armenia’s Economic Development."

Hayk Aloyan, founder and CEO of Lydian Armenia, discussed the impact of the development of science on the global demand for metals.

Professor Sargis Hayroyan from the Chair of Geophysics, Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology at YSU presented the topic "The Spread of Dangerous Geological Phenomena in Armenia." Associate Professor Ruben Movsesyan from the Chair of Regional Geology and Mineral Exploration addressed current issues in mineral geology.

The event also featured the presentation of a photo book summarizing the long history of the Faculty of Geography and Geology. The book highlights the faculty’s 90-year history, from its founding to the present day, and covers the educational programs and student life at the faculty.

For their active educational cooperation with the Faculty of Geography and Geology, certificates of appreciation were awarded to Director of Scientific and Technical Affairs at Norgeo LLC Hayk Igityan,  co-founder Suren Amirbekyan, co-founder and CEO Davit Davtyan. Additionally, YSU 100th Anniversary Commemorative Medal was awarded to Mkrtich Karapetyan and Robert Karapetyan, co-founders of Norgeo LLC.

The Gold Medal was awarded to Professor Sargis Hayroyan and Associate Professor Ruben Movsesyan.