YSU expands partnership with Zangezur Copper Molybdenum Combine

The agreement outlines joint initiatives in geological, hydrological, hydrogeological, and various other research areas, including assessments of the environmental impact of mining operations. It also provides opportunities for YSU students to undertake professional internships at ZCMC’s production facilities and laboratories. The partnership envisions the exchange of specialists, with ZCMC professionals participating in YSU’s educational programs as guest lecturers, while university experts will be involved in professional projects at ZCMC.

YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan, emphasizing the significance of strengthening the cooperation, noted that the university is opening a new chapter in its relationship with one of Armenia’s largest taxpayers—ZCMC. "This is a mutually beneficial initiative," he said, "especially considering that YSU is the largest university in Armenia and a key source of qualified professionals for ZCMC."

"This cooperation will allow students to complete their academic internships at ZCMC, gaining hands-on experience and participating in the full cycle of production activities. In doing so, they will be able to transform their theoretical knowledge into practical skills," the rector said, emphasizing that the partnership is expected to deepen further in the field of research—strengthening the link between education, science, and industry. 

"Across the world, leading industrial companies commission research from universities to find effective solutions to business-related challenges. In this context, YSU is ready to contribute its professional and research expertise to further strengthen ZCMC’s capacities," emphasized Hovhannes Hovhannisyan.

He added that the university’s cooperation with ZCMC is not limited to the Faculty of Geography and Geology, as the company's operations are also closely connected with the Faculties of Biology, Economics and Management.

"Our goal is clear: to continuously improve the quality of education, thereby advancing the economy and strengthening our country," the rector concluded. 

In his remarks, ZCMC Director Armen Stepanyan emphasized the importance the company places on investments in education and culture, noting that such efforts largely serve the well-being of future generations.

"Geology is our primary field, but supporting disciplines are equally important, as it is difficult to carry out high-quality mining operations without them. Mining is, of course, much more than just excavation and extraction. Our organization employs a wide range of specialists. We are convinced that our cooperation with YSU will yield meaningful results in the future," he said.

Sargis Kelyan, Dean of YSU Faculty of Geography and Geology, referred to the close cooperation the faculty had with ZCMC last year, as part of which students visited the plant and observed mining operations firsthand.

"With the support of ZCMC, students from the Faculty of Geography and Geology will once again undertake their academic internships in Syunik this year, accompanied by their academic supervisors and participating directly in the company’s operations. In this regard, we already have a successful experience. We have recorded that last year’s internship was quite effective," Kelyan noted.

He added that, with support from industry partners, the faculty also plans to organize a summer camp for high school students in Syunik. The goal of the initiative is to present the field of geology in a detailed and multifaceted way, thereby helping students better understand the profession and supporting their career orientation.