The five-module training course aimed at enhancing the soft skills of the academic staff ended at the Armenian State Pedagogical University (ASPU) on June 8.

The three-month program was implemented within the framework of a trilateral memorandum of cooperation (MoC) signed between the EXHEO Education and Career Development Foundation, ASPU, and Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES Armenia).

Throughout the course, participants acquired new knowledge and practical skills related to the nature and types of change, the fundamentals of emotional intelligence and neuroscience, tools for creative thinking, as well as contemporary educational methods.

Acting Rector of ASPU Lilit Mkrtchyan emphasized the importance of the program, noting that in the 21st century a person should learn continuously, discover and understand the changes and innovations taking place in the world, share and enrich his/her professional experiences.

She highly appreciated the feedback about the program, considering it positive, effective, purposeful, and inspiring. Lilit Mkrtchyan voiced confidence that the knowledge and skills acquired during the course will contribute to the development of learners' abilities and the organization of the educational process more effectively, and will further improve the quality of teaching.

The acting rector also voiced hope that the established partnership would continue through other initiatives and formats of cooperation in the future.

Liana Badalyan, Program Manager at FES Armenia, emphasized the important role of the program participants as professionals who educate conscious, responsible, and active citizens. She added that the next generation needs open-minded, effective, and progressive educators just like the program participants.

Kristina Tsaturyan, Acting Director of the EXHEO Foundation, said in turn that each meeting held within the framework of the training course had enriched her with new knowledge.

The trainers believe that the program contributed to the professional and personal development of the participants by fostering a culture of creating a people-centered and collaborative environment, strengthening empathy and emotional awareness, and promoting a growth mindset and continuous self-development. At the same time, it contributed to the development of an open (unbiased) attitude towards innovation and experimentation, the ability to learn from mistakes, and the skills to work flexibly in a changing environment - an opportunity that will continue in the future.

In her speech, Kristina Tsaturyan stressed that the role of soft skills is often overlooked in our society, whereas in the 21st century they are among the most important skills and competences; after all, knowledge is constantly evolving, and if we are flexible, it becomes possible to make the most of it.

The participants also shared their impressions of the training course, emphasizing its effectiveness and practical value. They particularly hailed the format of the program, noting that the continuously changing requirements in the field of education create a need for new skills and approaches among professionals, and the knowledge gained during the course is applicable in their daily professional activities.

At the end of the program, certificates equivalent to 2 academic credits were awarded, marking the successful completion of the three-month course and summarizing the outcomes of the participants’ learning experience.