YEREVAN, Armenia — Two ambitious AUA students, Edgar Minasyan (BSCS ’26) and Davit Poghosyan (BAB ’27), combined their diverse skills in computer science and business to cultivate innovation in Armenian agriculture. Recognizing the sector’s untapped potential, they have developed a concept for an automated chemical spraying robot designed to revolutionize greenhouse farming. Their journey, from identifying a key problem to developing a prototype, showcases the power of collaboration and commitment to the development of Armenia.
Edgar Minasyan (BSCS ’26)
Berj and Sonia Kalaidjian Endowed Scholarship
Edgar is a junior majoring in computer science at AUA. He discovered his passion for programming at the age of 10, which later led him to the field of computer science with the goal of gaining in-depth knowledge in machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) in the future.
“The practical focus of the courses and the expertise of the instructors are AUA’s greatest assets,” Edgar remarked.
Davit Poghosyan (BAB ’27)
The Vahe and Lucie Foundation Scholarship
Davit is a sophomore majoring in business at AUA. Studying business provides him with the flexibility to explore areas ranging from marketing to accounting while enabling him to apply the acquired skills across various fields.
“The theoretical knowledge gained at AUA provides the foundation to support your decision-making in the future,” Davit said.
While majoring in different programs, Edgar and Davit were eager to combine their skills for a common project. Their shared passion for problem-solving and desire to contribute to Armenia’s development led them to the Agritech Incubation Program at Tumolabs.
“We realized that Armenian agriculture lags behind but has great potential. By improving efficiency in the field, we can significantly increase its value,” explained Davit. “Our idea is a robot that automates the chemical spraying process in small and mid-sized greenhouses. Efficient spraying is one of the biggest problems in greenhouses, as a good harvest depends on high-quality spraying. Most greenhouses in Armenia do it manually, which is not as precise as it would be with robots.”
The robot promises to increase precision, optimize chemical usage, and decrease the chances of plant diseases, ultimately improving the quality of the harvest.
Edgar and Davit completed the Agritech Incubation Program and are currently focused on building their first prototype, talking to potential customers, and applying for funding.
Looking to the future, Edgar hopes to explore ML and AI, while Davit aims to pursue a career in microeconomics and analytics, with a goal to contribute to Armenia’s economic development.
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. AUA’s Office of Development stewards the University’s philanthropic efforts exclusively for educational purposes.