AUA Offers Free Academic English Courses to Forcibly Displaced Artsakh Youth

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YEREVAN, Armenia — The American University of Armenia, with the support of Dr. Rouben Aftandelians, Harry Bronozian, and the Miaseen nonprofit organization, has launched Academic English courses, at no cost, for forcibly displaced youth from Artsakh. The program is being overseen by Dr. Irshat Madyarov, associate professor at the AUA College of Humanities and Social Sciences, chair of the Teaching English as a Foreign Language program, and director at the Center for Research in Applied Linguistics. 

“The intention behind the Academic English course was to prepare our participants from Artsakh for further academic and professional study in English,” said Dr. Madyarov. This kind of English goes beyond simple language proficiency and places emphasis on study skills, writing CVs, and drafting statements of purpose. We believe these assets will open up doors to successful career paths for our participants.” 

The idea for the initiative arose following the forcible displacement of the native population of Artsakh in September 2023. The twice-weekly classes are held both on the main AUA campus and in the Najarian Building. “It’s not about teaching only: day by day, we create a stronger bond with our students,” said program coordinator Anna Avetisyan, who also serves as one of the program instructors. “When engaging in a learning environment, we not only share knowledge but also exchange experiences, ideas, and perspectives. In this dynamic interaction, trust and mutual respect are fostered, encouraging open communication, collaboration, and empathy.”

Out of 203 registered applicants, the selection committee shortlisted 155 individuals for placement tests. 86 shortlisted applicants then attended the placement tests administered by the University to identify those of intermediate proficiency level, which is the target group for the classes. 48 were subsequently invited to join the course. The participants were then split into three groups: two groups who are forecasted to reach the level of proficiency necessary for academic success in a course or degree taught in English within 50 hours, and another that will require 100 hours of instruction. 

The participants are grateful to AUA and its donor community for providing them with the opportunity to enhance their English language skills. “It is a very impactful course, thanks to the organizers and the lecturer,” said student Ruben Avetyan. “Even after finishing the lesson, our thoughts are in English. I am deeply thankful for this opportunity.” His classmate Ani Sargsyan concurred: “I am extremely pleased with the current AUA Academic English classes. The content is both beneficial and captivating, expanding my knowledge and strengthening my language proficiency. I am grateful for this opportunity.”

AUA extends its gratitude to its supporters for stepping in at a critical time to help equip program participants from Artsakh with necessary skills to enhance their opportunities in Armenia. 

Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, affiliated with the University of California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission in the United States. AUA provides local and international students with Western-style education through top-quality undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values.