Vanadzor State University

In order to meet the requirements of staffing the educational institutions of the north-eastern region of RA with teachers, and at the same time with the aim to organize distance learning education of RA teachers in Kirovakan, Yerevan distance learning Pedagogical Institute was moved to Kirovakan and renamed Kirovakan State Pedagogical Institute, by the, resolution N455 of the Board of Ministers of Armenia, July 9, 1969. The following five faculties were moved to Kirovakan from Yerevan distance learning Pedagogical Institute: Armenian language and literature; Primary school teaching methodology; Physics and Mathematics; Biology and History. In the same year full-time education department opened with the abovementioned specialties. 4711 students moved to Kirovakan. In the primary stage of its formation the Institute overcame difficulties that had to do with the administrative, economic and daily matters. Despite of a series of resolutions and orders adopted by the republic and local Governments in favour of the Institute, the self-affirmation of the Institute required persistent and hard work. It was rather difficult to recruit staff with high academic degrees and ranks, a staff who would have ample teaching experience in higher education institutions. The Institute lacked the skills and experience to organize full-time education. In addition, it didn’t have the necessary laboratories, studies, technical means for teaching and appropriate equipment. The acquisition of desks, laboratory equipment and the establishment of solid basis for teaching was an urgent matter. The problem of the building for educational activities and that of the dormitory still remained unsolved. Nevertheless, due to the great efforts and persistence, the Institute was gradually formed with its full-time and distance learning departments. Gradually the building conditions were improved, laboratories, studies and new rooms were established. Lecturers became engaged in scientific work. Year by year the Institute thrived, replenishing with new specialties and improving the educational process.