AUA and the Yerevan State University of Architecture and Construction Team Up to Improve Environmental Education in Building Design and Construction Disciplines in Armenia

2 min read

YEREVAN – In its continuing efforts to build close relations with Armenia’s public universities and institutions, the American University of Armenia (AUA) signed a memorandum of understanding with the Yerevan State University of Architecture and Construction (YSUAC) in a ceremony held at AUA on September 24, 2013.  YSUAC was represented by its rector, Dr. Hovhannes Tokmajyan, and AUA was represented by its president, Dr. Bruce M. Boghosian. Both university leaders indicated that they hoped that the memorandum would lead to new collaborations in teaching and research, as well as in the organization of lectures, seminars, and conferences of mutual interest.  The partnership will also include collaboration in curriculum development, the exchange of educational programs and academic materials, and new initiatives related to architecture, construction, and urban planning education.

Explaining the importance of the partnership, Director of the AUA Acopian Center for the Environment (AUA ACE) Alen Amirkhanian says, “How we design our buildings and cities, the energy choices we make, the land use approaches we adopt, and the transportation options we provide all play a critical role in our environmental footprint. So architects, urban planners, and builders are an integral part of our aspiration to become environmentally responsible.” A partnership between YSUAC, the only institution that trains architects and builders in Armenia, and AUA, with the College of Science and Engineering and the Acopian Center for the Environment, has strong logic, argues Amirkhanian.

The joint research will focus on areas such as ecology, green urbanism, sustainable architecture, solar and alternative energy, and small hydro power plants. The partnership will also include joint participation in international programs and grant competitions, as well as the provision of English language classes for YSUAC students.

Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia and affiliated with the University of California. AUA provides a global education in Armenia and the region, offering high-quality, graduate and undergraduate studies, encouraging civic engagement, and promoting public service and democratic values.