EDUCATION

The past decade's devastating economic conditions have severely undermined Armenia's educational system. The defense of education has thus become one of BAFA's primary missions. Our support in this area is of utmost importance both in immediate as well as long range terms. Without a strong educational system we cannot reach our dream for a secure and productive Armenia.

The educational system of Armenia is in real crisis. As the March 2003 Republic of Armenia - Interim Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper prepared by the Ministry of Statistics of Armenia reports the annual government expenditure per student is equivalent to $85.00. Also the average monthly salary of public sector workers, including teachers is $50.00, who in most cases are still not paid on time. No funds are allocated for the upkeep of schools, which are deteriorating due to lack of repair. Additionally, there are no funds for school supplies like books, paper and pencils.

Through BAFA donors support we have been helping "Michnagarg" schools by contributing approximately $1,000.00 to each. This sum amounts to about 10% of the annual budget of many village schools. During the last several years we have visited 40 schools, and transferred to their principals the sum of $100,275. We have requested that the funds be allocated to supplement teachers' salaries and to purchase school supplies.

BAFA jointly working with the Armenian Social Investment Fund (ASIF) recently reconstructed the earthquake damaged Norashen 'Michnagarg' school giving students warm and safe classrooms, which have been lacking since the Spitak earthquake. Presently we are working with ASIF on the reconstruction of the Bakhchyan 'Michnagarg' school on Goris.

Recently we also started two new pilot programs; the first one, feeding breakfasts to children, which helps students to concentrate on their schooling rather than on their hunger. The second one screening school children for their eyesight and supplying eyeglasses for those needing them.

In the spirit of education, please donate generously. We assure you that each dollar you earmark for education is applied directly to the cause. Your support does make a difference. When you invest in the future of Armenia's children, you are in fact investing in the future of Armenia.

Examples of Pictures of School Activities

Kindergarten class at Lernabari Michnagarg School

Classroom/Library of Lernabari Michnagarg School

Classroom/Laboratory of Lernabari Michnagarg School

The Earthquake damaged Lernabari Michnagarg School