YSU STEM High School sees off graduates, summarizes year marked by achievements

YSU Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Elina Asriyan emphasized that the school was founded on a vision of creating an educational environment where learning is enjoyable and knowledge and intellect are regarded as the highest values.

"We dreamed of establishing a school where learning would be enjoyable and where people would stand out through their intellect. Today, we can proudly say that this dream has become a reality. I am confident that your journey will continue at some of the world's leading universities, while YSU STEM High School will remain a bridge to those opportunities," Asriyan said.

She noted that beginning next academic year, the school will join the International Baccalaureate (IB) network, creating new opportunities for students by providing education aligned with international standards and broader access to leading universities worldwide.

Addressing the graduates, YSU STEM High School Director Aram Khachatryan stressed that even more important than the knowledge gained at school is the value system formed during the years of study.

"Here, you not only acquired new knowledge, but also learned to think critically, to ask questions and not to fear making mistakes. The most important achievement is the ability to be a thinking and creative individual. No matter how rapidly the world changes, it will always need young people like you — thoughtful, creative and patriotic individuals," the director said, wishing the graduates bold dreams and ambitious goals.

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Susanna Petrosyan and Nane Ananikyan reflected on memorable moments from their school years, achievements and friendships that helped shape their worldview and vision for the future.

"Today we are closing one of the most important chapters of our lives to open the next one filled with greater responsibility and greater opportunities," Susanna said. 

Nane noted that the three years spent at the school marked an important stage not only in her scientific and educational development, but also in her personal growth, filled with olympiad achievements, projects and unforgettable memories.

Academic year marked by achievements and new opportunities

The 2025–2026 academic year was marked by significant achievements for YSU STEM High School in both academics and international cooperation.

According to Khachatryan, one of the school's most important accomplishments was obtaining candidate school status for the International Baccalaureate and entering the final certification stage. The school is expected to become a full IB member in the near future, which will provide students with exceptional educational opportunities and broaden access to leading universities worldwide.

Throughout the academic year, students continued to achieve success in academic olympiads. Most recently, all three students who participated in an olympiad competition returned with medals. Students also recorded strong results in national and YSU olympiads in biology, history, Armenian language and literature, and other subjects.

Students actively participated in festivals and competitions dedicated to science, technology and innovation, presenting their projects and research work. They took part in the Science Festival, STEM-oriented competitions, YSU "Learn & Work" Expo and numerous other initiatives.

Many graduates have already received admission offers from prestigious universities in Armenia and abroad, including institutions in South Korea, China, Spain and several other countries. Some students were admitted to multiple universities and are now making their final choices.

One of the school's key advantages is the opportunity to study within a university setting. Students at YSU STEM High School benefit from access to the university's educational and scientific infrastructure, laboratories, libraries and academic community, enabling them to engage in academic and research processes from an early age.

Director Khachatryan noted that the school consistently maintains high academic standards and a demanding approach to education. Although newly admitted students initially find the grading system unusual, over time, they adapt and come to appreciate the importance of genuine knowledge and fair assessment.

"Our primary goal is not to ensure high grades, but to provide real, high-quality education that delivers stronger long-term results," Khachatryan emphasized.

Today, YSU STEM High School continues to strengthen its position among Armenia's leading educational institutions by combining modern education, scientific thinking, international opportunities and a rich university environment. The graduation of another class once again demonstrates that the school is successfully fulfilling its mission of educating conscious, competitive and responsible citizens of the future.