More Than a Quiz: How FAR’s STEM Olympiads Make Science Exciting and Bring Students Together

Sisians’ School No. 2 seventh graders, Tatevik and Angelina, began preparing for FAR’s annual STEM quiz weeks in advance. They created an online group where they shared questions and problems with each other and practiced through online tests. Their hard work paid off: they won 3rd place in Physics and 1st place in Chemistry.

“We studied and prepared a lot after classes. This is a chance to test our knowledge, and we are also very happy that we were chosen to represent our school,” says Tatevik Poghosyan.

“At first we were nervous, but after the first question the stress disappeared,” adds Angelina Safyan.

Students from grades 7–9 of public schools in Ijevan, Noyemberyan, and Berd communities of Tavush Province, as well as Sisian in Syunik Province, came together to test their knowledge in chemistry, physics, and biology.

In 2025, around 2,500 students from 42 schools participated in the subject quizzes, while in 2026 the number grew to 4180 students from 63 schools.

The subject quizzes ignite a love of science among students in Tavush and Syunik, transforming biology, chemistry, and physics from classroom subjects into experiences filled with teamwork and excitement.

“These competitions create great excitement among students and make school life more interesting and engaging. The team-based and interactive format also helps students feel more confident and relaxed. At the same time, the quizzes are highly educational and encourage greater interest in science subjects while helping students strengthen their knowledge,” said Eduard Karapetyan, FAR’s Education and Science Programs Director.

These Olympiads do more than test scientific knowledge — they inspire young people to see science as something joyful, collaborative, and full of possibilities. They are also an opportunity to introduce students to future career paths and inform them about FAR scholarships, encouraging them to imagine futures in STEM fields: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

Teachers are also convinced that the competitions challenge students to think critically, solve problems creatively, and work together under pressure.

Gayane Abazyan, a teacher from Lchkadzor School in Tavush Province, says that while students usually follow the standard school curriculum and solve regular exercises in class, the quiz questions are much more engaging and inspiring. She says these competitions have helped her discover the hidden potential of many students.

“I discovered how deeply and creatively they think and how accurately they explain scientific phenomena. The in-person participation itself is very motivating for them. They enjoy communicating with their peers and are always eager to come and compete. If last year they fell one step behind, this year they want to come back stronger. I can truly say that FAR’s program has been a lifeline in helping raise our children’s level of knowledge and motivation,” says the teacher, who has 26 years of experience.

The teams that placed first through third were awarded certificates, books, and science-related encyclopedias. The schools with the best overall team results received prizes including color printers, audio equipment, encyclopedias, and other gifts.

Notably, the top-performing students will join summer science camps organized in collaboration with the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory and the "Hzor Mitk" NGO (Powerful Mind).