Two years ago, Nanar Markosyan, 15, discovered she had a love for agriculture and greenhouse flower cultivation when she joined an extra-curricular group at her high school on agricultural management. The group, which was made possible by FAR’s Support for Artsakh’s Displaced Project, aims to ignite interest in sustainable farming practices amongst youth, while also showing them a potential path toward income-generation and self-sustainability.
There, Nanar learned about horticulture and gardening, both in theory and in practice. She and her group learned about soil reaction and wine production at the Areni Wine Factory, and about cheese-making and milk fat content at the dairy laboratory of the Sisian branch of the National Agrarian University.
Nanar is currently studying at the Sisian branch college of the National Agrarian University, with aspirations to further her studies in the field of greenhouse management. She shares her plans, saying, "I envision opening a flower greenhouse in Brnakot in the future, potentially specializing in roses, although I'm still uncertain. Being part of this group has taught me the proper cultivation techniques for achieving a bountiful harvest. It's crucial to provide plants with the right nourishment and care.”
Armine Shoghunts, a professor at the Sisian branch of the National Agrarian University, and the group instructor, expressed the vital role of the initiative in cultivating interest in agriculture among the youth. "It's essential to foster a love for learning, especially in areas like the environment and national heritage from an early age. By doing so, we can inspire the next generation to pursue meaningful careers that positively contribute to society and enable them to provide for their families. FAR has made significant investments in this regard, including providing scholarships to students from underprivileged families in the Sisian region,” she stated.
In 2022, the number of participants in the extracurricular group doubled from 11 to 24, with seven former schoolchildren gaining admission to the Armenian National Agrarian University, Sisian branch.
The Support for Artsakh's Displaced project, launched in 2021, aims to aid the resettlement of the most vulnerable individuals affected by the Artsakh war. Its comprehensive approach includes providing shelter and housing solutions, emergency relief and cash assistance, education, economic empowerment, and healthcare services. The project has also targeted disadvantaged individuals residing in the Sisian Region of Armenia's Syunik Province.
Support the Artsakh's Displaced by making a donation to FAR today.