"GeoLab: Environment of Future" education center opens at YSU

At the "GeoLab: Environment of Future" education center, students will participate in theoretical, laboratory, and practical courses. Equipped with state-of-the-art instruments, the laboratories will allow students to conduct a wide range of research. For example: 

The Geophysics Laboratory is equipped with modern digital instruments, giving students the opportunity to conduct both research and hands-on work using geophysical methods. Through these activities, students will develop practical skills essential for carrying out geological studies in the field and in the laboratory.

The Mineralogy and Petrography Laboratory features polarizing microscopes capable of up to 600x magnification, as well as equipment and materials for studying minerals, ores, and rocks. The laboratory will host lectures in "Mineralogy", "Petrography", and "Mineragraphy", alongside laboratory and practical work, during which students will continue developing skills in comprehensive study of minerals and rocks using the state-of-the-art equipment. 

In the Geological Modeling Laboratory, students will have the opportunity to conduct various studies, including analysis of drilling data, modeling of geological bodies and structural elements, and geostatistical analysis. The laboratory will be used for diverse geological research and will also host training programs for university partners.

In parallel with educational activities, the laboratories will also support ongoing research projects.

In addition to laboratories, classrooms, and conference halls, the "GeoLab: Environment of Future" education center will host a Junior Geologist School. In this program, students will complement theoretical knowledge with hands-on research experience, learn to use geological tools, examine the structure of rocks and minerals, and become familiar with the principles of reading and creating geological maps.

Yerevan State University Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan, highlighting a one-year partnership with the Kapan Mining and Processing Company, emphasized that the "GeoLab: Environment of Future" educational initiative is a key component of the university's educational transformation.

"In collaboration with our partner, we have achieved another successful milestone. With the support of the Kapan Mining and Processing Company, one wing of the faculty was completely renovated and outfitted with modern technology. This is not merely an environmental upgrade—it is a core part of our vision to transform the educational process. Students will have the opportunity to receive high-quality education in new conditions and at a higher level. This environment will also allow us to conduct advanced training for our public and private sector partners," he said.

The rector noted that consistent collaboration with government agencies and private companies in recent years has contributed to the Faculty of Geography and Geology's advancement, which is also reflected in increasing student enrollment. According to Hovhannisyan, applications have risen across both bachelor's and master's programs. 

"We can confidently say that the faculty's graduates will join public and private sector organizations, supporting the country's development with new knowledge and innovative methodologies," he added.

Hovhannisyan also emphasized the practical importance of collaboration with mining companies, noting that university students have the opportunity to undertake internships at these companies. Many of them—particularly the Kapan Mining and Processing Company—cover all student expenses while also providing valuable knowledge and experience. 

Armenian Minister of Environment Hambardzum Matevosyan emphasized the importance of cooperation among educational institutions, the state, and responsible businesses.

"Cooperation with Yerevan State University is of strategic importance for the Ministry of Environment. Today, environmental policy cannot be effective without a scientific foundation, innovative approaches, and a solid professional school. Therefore, it is a priority for us to support initiatives that make education more practical-oriented and science more useful for public administration and public safety," the minister said. He recalled the opening of the Hydrometeorology Laboratory at the Faculty of Geography and Geology several months ago, established within the framework of cooperation between the Zvartnots Aviation Meteorological Center and the faculty.

Referring to the mining sector, Matevosyan said, "This sector is, on the one hand, a key pillar of the economy and, on the other, one that requires a high standard of environmental risk management. Success in this sector is measured not only by production indicators but also by the quality of impact assessments, as well as prevention and accountability mechanisms. This is precisely where university–industry cooperation becomes a driving force for genuine progress." 

According to the minister, when a private company opens its practical agenda to the scientific community—allowing education and research to engage directly with real-world challenges—the result is mutually beneficial.

"The university trains specialists whose thinking aligns with labor market demands, while the company gains a strong scientific foundation for more accurate measurements, well-grounded assessments, and effective environmental management. As a result, the quality of education improves, the scientific basis of public policy is strengthened, and responsible business practices are encouraged around a shared goal: sustainable development and a safe environment," he emphasized.

Sasun Avetisyan, Chairman of the Board of Kapan Mining and Processing Company, emphasized that the goal of the "GeoLab: Environment of Future" education center is to ensure the parallel development of high-quality, science-based education and industrial practice. 

"This is proof that through joint and goal-oriented efforts it is possible to achieve sustainable, long-term results. Kapan Mining and Processing Company has always valued cooperation with universities and implements programs that contribute to the practical training and professional growth of future specialists. The partnership between Kapan Mining and Processing Company and the Faculty of Geography and Geology has already evolved into a reliable and mutually beneficial collaboration aimed at improving the quality of education, integrating theory with practice, and training specialists who meet modern requirements," he said.

Avetisyan placed particular emphasis on university–industry cooperation at a time when the knowledge, responsibility, and professional mindset of young specialists are critical to the sustainable development of the country's mining and geological sectors.

"For many years, the YSU Faculty of Geography and Geology has been a significant center for training leading specialists in the field, and we highly value the faculty's strong commitment to improving educational quality and advancing modern approaches. The establishment of the "GeoLab: Environment of Future" education center is a significant achievement for both the university and our joint initiatives, as it creates modern conditions that will enhance students’ professional preparedness, encourage research activity, and strengthen links with real-world industry challenges," Avetisyan said. 

He added that many of the company's employees are graduates of the Faculty of Geography and Geology, which he described as the strongest evidence of the effectiveness of this cooperation.

Sargis Qelyan, Dean of the YSU Faculty of Geography and Geology, underscored the role and significance of the partnership established with the Kapan Mining and Processing Company, emphasizing that GeoLab is not merely a physical space or a renovated facility, but a meaningful expression of cooperation with a partner, a joint effort, a shared vision for development, and responsibility for the future. 

"Thanks to joint work, mutual trust, and shared responsibility, it was possible to bring this initiative to life—one that not only provides a competitive advantage, but also reinforces the faculty's strategic connection to real industry needs and trends in technological development," Qelyan said.

Stressing that education in the 21st century cannot be limited to classroom instruction alone, he added, "Real education is 'born' where theory and practice intersect, and where students are given the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge while addressing real-world challenges."

According to the dean, GeoLab makes it possible to elevate educational, research, and applied capacities to a new level, expand the practical component of academic programs, ensure modern laboratory and technical conditions, and create an environment in which students can carry out research and project-based work.

Emphasizing the importance of GeoLab, particularly for students, and noting that they are at the center of the initiative, Qelyan said, "We are convinced that the quality of education must keep pace with the changing demands of the times. Our goal is for students not only to acquire theoretical preparation, but also to address real-world problems, understand the field's challenges from within, interact with experienced professionals, and develop skills that will make them competitive both in Armenia and on the international stage." 

The event also featured musical and cultural interludes performed by students of the Yerevan State University Charles Aznavour Cultural Center. Guests had the opportunity to watch a film about the Kapan Mining and Processing Company, which highlighted the intellectual dedication of the people who have shaped Armenia's industrial history over the years. The film also showcased the human effort, sense of responsibility, and strong professional commitment behind the company's work. 

The film highlighted those who contribute daily to the country's development and economic growth, and presented the story of a company in which many leadership positions are held by graduates of the Faculty of Geography and Geology.

At the conclusion of the event, Hovhannes Hovhannisyan awarded the YSU Gold Medal to Sasun Avetisyan, Chairman of the Board of the Kapan Mining and Processing Company.

Certificates of appreciation were also presented to employees of Lichkvaz and the Kapan Mining and Processing Company, who are graduates of or currently studying in the YSU "Geology" program, as well as to employees of S&M Mining.