Archbishop Sepouh Chuljian classroom-library to serve as new research and educational environment at YSU

Archbishop Sepouh Chuljian played a significant role in advancing Turkish studies in Armenia. Over the years, with his support and patronage, a substantial body of literature on Turkish studies was published and republished at the YSU Faculty of Oriental Studies, including textbooks on the history of the Republic of Turkey and Turkish literature, Turkish-language teaching materials, works on the Armenian community in Turkey and other educational resources.

YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan emphasized that the establishment of the classroom-library reflects the university's commitment to duly recognizing the work of dedicated individuals. 

The rector also noted that such comfortable environments contribute to improving the quality of education. Designed for students and faculty members, the modern classroom, equipped with relevant literature and technical facilities, will help improve the quality of education, particularly for future specialists in Turkish and Azerbaijani studies.

Presenting the idea behind the establishment of the classroom-library, Dean of YSU Faculty of Oriental Studies Ruben Melkonyan noted that after stepping down from his position as diocesan primate, Archbishop Sepouh had intended to pursue Turkish studies and establish a foundation dedicated to the field. According to Melkonyan, opening a library and contributing to the expansion of the younger generation's knowledge were among the Archbishop's final wishes, which have now been fulfilled. 

Gurgen Grigoryan, a representative of the Archbishop Sepouh Chuljian Charitable Foundation, said, "Knowledge is the most powerful weapon. A knowledge-based society and generations grounded in knowledge are the future of our country. This classroom will best serve the education and development of generations, foster more effective cooperation between faculty members and students, and facilitate the exchange of knowledge."

Mariam Chuljian, the Archbishop's niece, described the naming of the classroom-library as recognition of Archbishop Sepouh Chuljian's years of work, dedication to scholarship and commitment to supporting the younger generation, also viewing it as a continuation of his work. 

"Such initiatives are important not only for preserving memory but also for passing it on to new generations. When names are associated with work, values and service, they do not remain merely memories but continue to live through the people and generations who build their education and activities on those values," she said. 

Mariam Chuljian concluded her remarks with the following words of Archbishop Sepouh Chuljian: "We strive to ensure that our generations grow, become stronger and develop in the national spirit. For children to develop in the national spirit, they must be educated and brought up accordingly. If you do not educate them and leave generations to their own course, you will never have a national country and state." 

The event was also attended by benefactors Grigor Kyurtyan, Murat Akyuz and Armen Mkhoyan, who sponsored the renovation of the classroom, as well as faculty members, students and guests.