Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders through Science Camp

Seventeen-year-old Vahe Galstyan has been captivated by the mysteries of the universe for as long as he can remember.

“Physics has always fascinated me,” he says. “There’s always something new to explore, and it never stops amazing me.”

In early spring, Vahe along with 2,500 middle and high school students from 60 schools across the Berd, Ijevan, Noyemberyan, and Sisian regions participated in a FAR-supported large-scale STEM Olympiad. He emerged as one of the winners in physics, earning the opportunity to join his peers in a science camp organized jointly with the “Hzor Mitk” (Strong Mind) NGO thanks to the generous support of the Yeramyan Family Foundation.

For a full week, the STEM campers stayed at the Student’s House in Yerevan, immersed in a transformative experience that combined advanced science learning, innovation, and community. They explored top scientific institutions like the Institute of Fine Organic Chemistry, Armbiotechnology Scientific and Production Center, and the Byurakan Observatory. They also toured Engineering City, interacted with leading tech startups, and participated in hands-on workshops in modeling and flight assembly.

Vahe, already a first-year student at the National Polytechnic University of Armenia’s Institute of Energetics and Electrical Engineering, said the experience left a lasting impression. “Last year, I came full of enthusiasm and curiosity. This year, I’m here as someone who has already achieved a dream,” he said. “The camp is an incredible opportunity to make new friends, visit research centers, and interact with well-known scientists. It makes you fall in love with science even more.”

“STEM education is not just about science; it’s about unlocking the potential of our youth to dream big, to lead, and to shape Armenia’s future,” said Eduard Karapetyan, FAR’s Education and Science Programs Director. “It’s incredibly motivating to see that 26 of the 30 participants are already studying in science-focused schools, and that most of our graduates will pursue tuition-free STEM majors at university. That’s the impact of programs like this.”

To continue nurturing the bright minds of tomorrow and fuel their thirst for knowledge, consider donating to FAR today.