Changes to Teacher Recruitment Process in Schools, Says Minister

The Minister of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports of Armenia considers the information that the subjects of Armenian Language, Armenian Literature, and Armenian History are being eliminated from universities to be disinformation. During a meeting with university lecturers, Arayik Harutyunyan noted that universities have full discretion to determine the extent and principles of how these subjects will be taught.

“I know your concern is that colleagues from non-Armenian studies departments will not defend your thesis. When we propose changes regarding the teaching of these subjects, we take into account the requests and complaints that have arisen over the last decade. We are not inventing this ourselves, nor do we wish to make arbitrary decisions in a system that is very complex,” said Arayik Harutyunyan.

Speaking about upcoming reforms in schools, Arayik Harutyunyan mentioned that the recruitment process for teachers in schools will change. Mathematics, History, and Armenian Language teachers will be required to pass an exam at a designated body before being hired.

“We will need the support of lecturers in this matter. This will somewhat regulate the issue that these subjects are not well taught in schools. Currently, we are developing a system whereby high school students will not need private tutors. To enter university, students will need to pass exams in their necessary subjects during six semesters, and entrance exams will no longer be conducted,” Arayik Harutyunyan emphasized, adding that they are open to suggestions within the framework of the reforms.