The Dean of the YSU Faculty of History, PhD, Associate Professor Mkhitar Gabrielyan, and the Deputy Dean, Head of the "Caucasian Studies" educational program, PhD, Associate Professor Hayk Mkhoyan, visited Parakar Secondary School as part of the university-school collaboration initiative. The visit focused on students' professional orientation, the relevance of historical education, and the strategic significance of the "Caucasian Studies" specialty.
Mkhitar Gabrielyan presented the educational directions of the bachelor's programs, noting that the profession of a historian has long surpassed the boundaries of purely theoretical knowledge. The Faculty of History trains analysts who are proficient in the critical examination of political processes and social phenomena.
Hayk Mkhoyan presented the "Caucasian Studies" program, emphasizing that it is built upon rich scientific traditions and aims to prepare specialists equipped with foundational knowledge in Armenian and Caucasian studies. One of the program's main advantages is its intensive language training: students acquire proficiency in one European language as well as Georgian and Azerbaijani. This enables them to become experts in the history and contemporary issues of the region (Georgia, Azerbaijan, and the North Caucasus), competitive both within Armenia and in the international academic and analytical arenas.
Regarding career opportunities, it was noted that graduates of the "Caucasian Studies" program, thanks to their solid foundational training, successfully work in both academic institutions and the public sector, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia, diplomatic missions, the Ministry of Defense, and the National Security Service.
The Head of the "Caucasian Studies" program also spoke about other educational programs offered by the Faculty of History, highlighting the unique features and opportunities of each.
As an alum and former teacher of Parakar Secondary School, H. Mkhoyan demonstrated through his own experience the successful educational trajectory—from the school classroom to university-level scientific activity.
During the meeting, the practical collaboration between the university and the school was particularly emphasized. An agreement was reached with the school principal, Anush Hakobyan, whereby students of Parakar Secondary School will henceforth have the opportunity to present their project work at the YSU Faculty of History, receiving professional guidance and support.
The visit concluded with a dialogue between the students and the university, discussing expectations on both sides. The conversation addressed students' perceptions of their future professions as well as the university's expectations of the prospective students.
