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On May 4, Armenian State Pedagogical University (ASPU) and San José State University (SJSU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation.
The document envisages development of joint research activities, cooperation on academic programmes, exchange of staff, researchers and MA students, mutual visits, exchange of information in the form of publications and journals, reference materials, etc.
During the visit, the SJSU delegates met with representatives of the five faculties, Chairs of Chess and Sports, Economics and Management to get acquainted with the directions and outline the spheres of joint work.
Welcoming the guests at the university, ASPU Rector Ruben Mirakhanyan stressed that thanks to its geographical location and professional teaching staff, San José State University is in the focus of global scientific and educational progress.
“The document was signed between the two universities as a result of mutual agreement. I am sure that as a result of staff and student exchange we shall be able to deepen cooperation and identify further areas of collaboration,” Mr. Mirzakhanyan said, citing the example of ASPU’s cooperation with the University of Oulu (Finland) and Pázmány Péter Catholic University (Hungary).
Introducing Mary Papapzian, President of San José State University, Ruben Mirakhanyan stressed her 30-year-old experience in academia and said she has a notable career in the United States of America as an educator, administrator and scholar of English literature. “She is national pride,” he stressed.
“Hello everyone and thank you for warm welcome,” Mary Papapzian greeted the attendees in Armenian. She stressed that she had had an unusual experience with her colleagues in recent days. “We understood that a huge amount of energy has accumulated here which is aimed at creating new bridges and carrying out research. I have visited Armenian State Pedagogical University on many occasions. The events marking the 90th anniversary of the University left an indelible impression on me,” she said.
The SJSU President says implementation of any agreement requires time and efforts; great work should be done for future cooperation.
“We have a lot of ideas. During the visit, we made an important practical step. We met with representatives of several faculties, discussed and identified the areas of cooperation,” Professor Papazian said adding that it is necessary to start from the exchange of experience and standards.
She says it is necessary to prepare students [through daily pedagogical work] for new changes and challenges, teach them how to take up and overcome challenges and how to become forerunners.
"I will look forward to the next step of collaboration in order to take over your great experience. Let’s win great achievements together,” Professor Papapzian said.
By the decision of the ASPU Academic Council, Ruben Mirzakhanyan handed Mary Papapzian a Khachatur Abovyan gilded medal, the highest reward of the University.
