Empowering Youth Voices: AEF Scholarship Recipients Meet with President Zurabishviliin Georgia

We are excited to present a success story narrated by our Javakhk scholarship recipient, Kristina Gubasaryan. Kristina, along with other recipients of the AEF Javakhk scholarship, recently had the privilege of meeting with President Salome Zourabichvili of Georgia. This meeting was a part of the collaborative project named "Sunday School for Pupils of Ethnic Minorities," which seeks to enhance the state language, encourage the involvement of students from ethnic minorities in the educational system, and contribute to the overall advancement of education.

Kristina documented this meeting, which took place on November 3rd at the Orbelian Palace, the official residence of President Zurabishvili. The gathering included passionate students from various universities, especially those studying international relations and political sciences, personally invited by President Zurabishvili.

During the meeting, President Zurabishvili discussed Georgia's European future, emphasizing its economic and peace-related significance. This was particularly relevant given the anticipation of Georgia being granted EU candidate status, officially approved on December 14. The President aimed to underscore the support of the younger generation in Georgia towards Europe.

President Zurabishvili also delved into a segment of Georgian history, recalling the contributions of notable figures such as Akaki Tsereteli and Ilia Chavchavadze, emphasizing their roles in shaping the nation's European past. She acknowledged the efforts made by the current generation in approaching Europe and seeking membership in the European family.

The meeting provided an invaluable opportunity for students, with Kristina Gubasaryan in particular, to engage with President Zurabishvili directly. Kristina posed a question regarding Georgia's progress in fulfilling the 12 points outlined by the European Commission, covering critical aspects like media independence, a non-biased judicial system, and depolarization of the country. Gubasaryan pointed out that only 3 out of the 12 points had been fulfilled, seeking insights into future efforts.

President Zurabishvili responded with confidence, acknowledging the need for further progress and assuring the students, that the remaining 9 points would be addressed during the candidacy phase.

Reflecting on this noteworthy experience, as recorded by our student Kristina Gubasaryan, such meetings provide a platform for continuous dialogue and collaboration between students and the country's leadership. This engagement, documented by Kristina Gubasaryan, plays a crucial role in the nation's development and its path toward a European future.

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For more information on the Armenian Educational Foundation or to become a scholarship sponsor, please visit aef.org or contact the AEF office at (818) 242-4154, aef@aefweb.org.