Education Management and Leadership training program launched

As part of the EU4Education Reforms program, the Ayb Educational Foundation, with the support of UNICEF and in cooperation with the RA MoESCS, is implementing the Education Management and Leadership training program for candidates of general education institutions’ principals.

This is an important program geared toward the enhancement of our education quality. According to the RA MoESCS study, 745 development programs were reviewed in 2024, with 86 receiving positive evaluations. The ministry carried out 100 interviews with candidates, among which 39 received positive evaluations. "It is crucial to have a school principal, as everyone imagines the impact the absence of a principal can have on the school activities.  However, we are willing to take that risk and leave the school without a principal for a period of time rather than appoint principals who do not meet the standards necessary for effective implementation of all the planned initiatives," mentioned Araksia Svajyan, deputy minister of the RA MoESCS.

This is why the three collaborating organizations have come together to drive change in education and make a positive impact on school management. The program aims to strengthen the institution of education leaders, by cultivating leadership and strategic planning skills and developing effective management knowledge of general education institutions’ principals.

The training program for principals has been developed by the Ayb Education Foundation and will be entirely implemented by its specialists. The seven-month program will be carried out in two groups of 30 participants each, through a hybrid format combining both face-to-face and online sessions.

"We have combined the management practice of the Ayb system, incorporating the knowledge acquired worldwide in education management, an area with which our country has, unfortunately, very little engagement. That practice should be adopted and transformed into our own, with the principals serving as its carriers and continuers. That is the very purpose of the program. We strive for the program participants to become education leaders at an international level, and we will not compromise on that standard," noted Aram Pakhchanyan, chairman of the Ayb Educational Foundation’s Board of Trustees. This is a mission that carries significant responsibility. While addressing the principal candidates, Mr. Pakhchanyan added: "We expect that, as a result, you will be truly prepared to take on this responsibility and become equal contributors to this initiative. Don't merely aim to become a school principal, aspire to be part of the mission that will lead Armenia's education toward a great future."

Alvard Poghosyan, UNICEF education programs manager, stated, "Our shared goal extends beyond enhancing the education quality. It involves raising a strong generation capable of making a difference. UNICEF is committed to supporting Armenia’s efforts to modernize its education system to provide all children and youth with inclusive quality education."

The principals’ capacity building will not only benefit specific education institutions but the entire system, while also strengthening collaborative culture in the management of general education institutions. An advanced and innovative toolset will provide an impetus for school principals to initiate and carry out the changes that are needed in today’s schools. Effective management has a direct impact on the quality of the learning environment and the ensurance of high education standards.