YEREVAN, Armenia — On November 21, the Center for Research in Applied Linguistics (CRAL) at the American University of Armenia (AUA) and the Aghunik Educational and Resource Center co-organized a roundtable discussion titled “Non-Formal Education in Character Development and Social Responsibility.”
The event brought together representatives from the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of the Republic of Armenia, UNICEF, and non-governmental and non-profit organizations engaged in youth capacity building through non-formal education. The roundtable served as a platform for networking, sharing organizational experiences, and broadening perspectives on how non-formal education can be better aligned and integrated with formal education curricula and institutional frameworks, specifically in the area of character building and social responsibility among teenagers and youth.
Throughout the discussion, participants reflected on the important role non-formal education can play in responding to the rapidly changing needs of modern society. Various approaches, curriculum models, and modes of implementation were presented by organizational representatives, highlighting the diversity and adaptability of non-formal education practices.
One of the key issues raised was the definition of non-formal education itself, with strong emphasis placed on inclusivity as its core principle. Participants noted that for non-formal education to be effective, it must establish clear expectations and boundaries while fostering open communication. It should also provide meaningful opportunities for learners to practice social responsibility and develop integrity and accountability; skills and values that can be transferred beyond non-formal learning settings. A recurring theme in the discussion was that ownership of the learning process should rest primarily with the students, even when supported or encouraged by parents, educators, and peers.
Following the formal discussion, participants continued conversations in a warm, informal atmosphere over refreshments, sharing challenges encountered in their educational work and exploring opportunities for future collaboration. Several attendees expressed interest in reconvening to further develop joint initiatives.
Gayane Hunanyan, the director for Educational Implementation of Agunik NGO, shared:
“It was very beneficial to meet representatives from different NGOs and hear their experiences around the same challenges we face. I now see that we share nearly the same vision regarding the Armenian context, and often, even the lessons learned are similar. I believe we are all moving in the same direction.”
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.
