President Sarkissian participated at the gathering in the TUMO center for creative technologies dedicated to Children’s Day and joined the UNICEF global initiative to make children’s voice heard.
At the meeting, children representatives of different educational institutions, spoke about different problems which concern them related to making their rights audible, necessity to change the educational system, as well as about global issues, such as skills required in the 21st century, investments into the future, and other topics.
President Sarkissian referred to the questions raised by the children in his remarks and stressed that for him, children are the most precious citizens of the Republic of Armenia. “Children are not only our most precious citizens, are not only individuals who have immense opportunities to become successful in the future but they also learn very fast. Learning is the most valuable achievement, and in my opinion, is an indicator of being young.”
According to the President, for him there are no children as such but rather individuals, regardless of their age, and the role of parents along with educating is to reveal the child’s talent because there are no untalented children.
Speaking about the issue raised by the children-speakers related to the educational system, President Sarkissian noted that in all times, even during his student years, issues related to the improvement of the educational system were being raised. “The educator’s mission is not only to educate but also to get educated and reveal in the children the talent, abilities which the child has as well as to assist in developing that talent. This is the teacher’s role – in kindergarten, in school, in college. Each of you is not only a son or a daughter of the brilliant nation but you also have talents which one day will reveal themselves,” he underscored and added that educators too should work hard to earn reputation, to get students’ respect. “Teacher and student should engage in a dialogue. It should start in early age and continue up until college, and then we will have perfect schools, teachers, and students. Have no doubt, knowledge is important,” the President underscored.
The President also expressed wish to get personally acquainted with a participant of the event, 12-year-old Gor Hambardzumian who being visually impaired studies music and is active in sports. Speaking to Gor, President Sarkissian said that physical problems or disability can never be a deficiency. “Gor is no different, or even has a greater advantage than many of us. Because physical deficiency is not a failing. Gor, be assured that in the 21st century there is a way to make you see, and I will be happy if you write me a letter on that day and say, “Mr. Sarkissian, I can see.” Just don’t give up, don’t be afraid, you’re a complete person, you’re a strong person. All the best to you.”
He told that during his recent visit to Gyumri, he visited the inclusive Aregak bakery-café, conversed with the children there and was very impressed.
“All of you have a great future, all of you are complete persons, all of you can get to the great dream you have. All of us together must do everything to create a country and an educational system which we desire. We can do that. You are responsible for Armenia to have the best educational system. Be confident, be strong and move ahead, never lose your talents, your ability to wonder, to discover, to ask, and to learn,” the President underscored.
The President also took part in the ensuing discussions and responded to the kids’ questions.