YEREVAN, Armenia — The American University of Armenia (AUA) is pleased to share that Dr. Uroš Prokić, program chair of the Master of Public Affairs program, and Dr. Asbed Kotchikian, associate professor in the Master of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy program, delivered a webinar at the Global Awareness Collaborative Colloquium.
The Global Awareness Collaborative Colloquium is organized by Grand Valley State University’s (Michigan) College of Education and Community Innovation and focuses on different regions’ cultural, societal, and historical narratives. Dr. Prokić and Dr. Kotchikian were invited to discuss the challenges of capacity building and public service reform in Armenia. The webinar was hosted by Dr. Quincy William, Undergraduate Program director and internship coordinator at Grand Valley State University.
According to the professors, the main factors influencing public service reform in Armenia include: a) historical legacy; b) the absence of data driven policymaking; and c) a lack of trust and engagement in the public sector. Despite the various challenges and opportunities that have dominated the country since its independence, they emphasized that the unclear separation between state and government remains a significant obstacle to achieving meaningful public service reform.
During the webinar, the speakers also highlighted the role of the Armenian Diaspora and its involvement in developing the public sector in Armenia. Leveraging the diaspora’s knowledge and expertise is seen as important for strengthening institutions and fostering innovation and reform within the public service.
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.