The Correlation Between Education and Industry

2 min read

YEREVAN, Armenia- On November 2, 2021, within the framework of the DigiWeek21 Summit, Dean of the AUA Akian College of Science and Engineering Dr. Aram Hajian moderated a discussion on the topic AI Education and Research.  The panelists were Data Science Program Chair Dr. Habet Madoyan and Adjunct Lecturer Dr. Karen Keryan. The row of questions discussed by the panelists and participants included the source of inspiration for restructuring or designing academic programs, the vital changes for academia, and research. 

Dr. Keryan brought his views and practice on conducting talks between companies in the industry and university program chairs to fast-track a curriculum that would best work in addressing the issues and knowledge gaps in the relevant industry. He also noted that students who take closely relevant courses are more likely to acquire positions in the field after graduation. Dr. Keryan went on to state that a fraction of students choose research when shaping their professional careers, which could drive the establishment of new labs that would advance more research in the field.

An alternative perspective was offered by the second panelist on the relationship between industry and education. Dr. Madoyan opined that the necessity for academia is not for pursuing the industry’s path but requires taking the lead and telling which route the industry should follow. In this context, AUA is currently preparing professionals in bioinformatics, and although the local industry is not yet fully established in that field, it might be developed with the help of skilled specialists. 

Dr. Hajian concluded the discussion by stating that corporations often undergo a crystal ball analysis to develop their long-term plans. In his words, the longer planning time stretch can make it tougher for both industry and academia, as it is always rather challenging to precisely foresee everything so many years in advance. 

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, graduate, and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values.