STEM High School laying groundwork for university education: New academic year begins at YSU

The event was opened by Aram Khachatryan, Director of YSU STEM High School, who delivered a welcome speech. He emphasized the decisive role of education in shaping Armenia’s future and reaffirmed the university’s vital mission to cultivate a civilized, educated, competitive, creative, and virtuous generation.

"Dear students of the STEM High School, as of today, you are university students and part of YSU family. By its structure, achievements, and strategy, the STEM School is fundamentally different from other institutions, and studying here is a major advantage in itself," he stated.

Highlighting the school’s unique features, Aram Khachatryan noted that, within a short span of time, the STEM High School has carved out a distinctive place in the field of general education. The school offers a unique educational model, with individualized schedules replacing traditional classroom structures. Students are grouped not by fixed classes but by the subjects and academic programs they choose.

In addition, the school offers advanced academic tracks and original educational programs developed by YSU faculty members. Instead of simply preparing for standardized exams, students are encouraged to develop professional thinking and gain in-depth knowledge in their chosen fields.

One of the school’s greatest assets is its integration into the university structure. Students have access to all of YSU facilities, including the library, sports halls, and academic and research laboratories. Courses are taught by researchers and university professors, providing early exposure to the world of science and academia.

STEM High School is not just a school—it is a scientific-educational network. Students become active participants in the university’s educational system, a rare opportunity for high school students. In a short period, the school has achieved outstanding results: its students have earned a total of seven medals in international olympiads—1 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze.

Aram Khachatryan also announced that, starting this year, the school will begin the rigorous process of international accreditation, launching the authorization process for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. This marks a significant step toward global educational recognition, opening doors both in Armenia and abroad.

He further emphasized that admissions to the school are highly competitive, resulting in a student body that is both well-prepared and highly motivated. This contributes to a high standard of education where students not only learn but also contribute to the learning of their peers.

Following the presentation of the school’s mission and achievements, Aram Khachatryan awarded certificates of recognition to students who demonstrated outstanding academic performance in the previous year. He also distributed national and international olympiad diplomas and medals.

Medal-winning students welcomed the newcomers, wishing them a year filled with knowledge, new friendships, and exciting adventures.

Later in the day, the new 10th-grade students toured the school, participated in intellectual games, and, guided by the school director, explored YSU’s infrastructure and the broad range of opportunities it offers.

"I wish all our students a fulfilling daily routine enriched with academic knowledge and extracurricular engagement. It is essential that when students leave school each day, they already look forward to returning. We have created nearly all the conditions necessary for such an enriching experience," concluded Aram Khachatryan.

Notably, beyond academic learning, students at the STEM High School have access to a wide range of extracurricular activities and programs. Among them is an Artificial Intelligence (AI) group, where students conduct scientific research, implement investigative projects, and participate in international olympiads.

Welcome to YSU STEM High School. We wish you an engaging and meaningful academic year.