COAF Expands to Syunik: Building Bridges Through English Education

For more than two decades, COAF has been working hand-in-hand with Armenia’s rural communities—expanding opportunities, empowering generations, and paving the way for brighter futures. Today, we’re thrilled to share a milestone moment in our journey: COAF is officially expanding to Syunik, Armenia’s southernmost region.

Thanks to the generous support of the H. Hovnanian Family Foundation, we are launching the Empowering English Teachers in Syunik: Mentorship Program, the very first COAF initiative in this region. This program will introduce local communities to COAF, and forge important relationships with educators in advance of our planned SMART Centers in Kapan and Goris.

Why This Matters

Education has always been at the heart of COAF’s mission. Over the years, we have introduced a number of formal and after-school education programs, including our innovative English language programs. We’ve also developed our own English textbooks now used in more than 600 schools nationwide, and have supported teachers with professional development opportunities to update their pedagogy in line with international best practices.

In the city of Goris, our new program will:

• Provide three months of intensive English classes for teachers
• Train seven mentors in a workshop led by the American University of Armenia
• Establish mentor–mentee partnerships through classroom observations, feedback, and co-teaching
• Conclude with a final conference where teachers showcase their growth and share new practices

In total, 14 public school teachers and their students will benefit from the program, marking the beginning of something much bigger.

A Vision Beyond the Classroom

This initiative is a bridge to the near future. Together with the Government of Armenia and the European Union, COAF is preparing to bring its flagship SMART model to Syunik, with two brand-new SMART Centers planned for Goris and Kapan. These hubs will open world-class educational and cultural opportunities for children and families in southern Armenia.

Looking Ahead

“This marks a historic first step for COAF in Syunik and sets the stage for transformative projects in the years ahead,” shared COAF Executive Director, Liana Ghaltaghchyan.

We couldn’t be more excited. Beyond strengthening English language proficiency and teaching skills, this mentorship program will be planting the seeds of innovation, connection, and opportunity. As COAF steps into Syunik, we are opening a new chapter in our mission: one where the children and families of Armenia’s south have the same access to resources, education, and inspiration as their peers across the country.