Within the framework of the Modernizing Vocational Education and Training in Agriculture in Armenia (MAVETA) project, a two-day event titled “MAVETAtalks: Women in VET and Agriculture» took place in Jermuk on March 12-13. The event brought together students and lecturers from Yerevan College of ANAU, Sisian branche of ANAU, Goris State Agricultural College and Echmiadzin Craftsman State School and pupils of Syunik marz, alongside private sector representatives.
The event aimed to increase interest among pupils from Syunik marz in agricultural professions, showcasing the sector’s advantages and the growing demand for skilled specialists.
Lilit Beglaryan, VET Consultant for the MAVETA project, introduced the dual education and professions launched within the project and highlighted key achievements.
During the MAVETAtalks presentations, VET and private sector representatives shared their experiences, successes, and motivational insights.
The second part of the event featured a panel discussion titled “Gender Equality in VET: Overcoming Barriers and Creating Opportunities in Agriculture.” Mariam Melikyan, Gender Equality Expert at the Strategic Development Agency NGO, presented data on gender equality and social inclusion in Armenia, comparing it with international trends.
Participants then explored gender stereotypes in agricultural professions and discussed the importance of adopting gender-sensitive approaches in the sector.
To conclude, schoolchildren engaged in a role-playing activity, expressing their thoughts and ideas about careers in agriculture, making the event both educational and interactive․
Special thanks to the Staff of Syunik Governor of the RA for ensuring the participation of students during the regional event.
The MAVETA project is funded by a broad coalition of international and local organizations led by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), including the Austrian Development Agency, the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Government of Armenia, the Swiss Church Aid (HEKS/EPER) NGO, Izmirlian Foundation, the Strategic Development Agency (SDA) NGO and Vanand Agro CJSC.
The project’s implementing partners are the GIZ and HEKS/EPER with the involvement of SDA and the School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences at the Bern University of Applied Sciences (HAFL).