Empowering Futures: Inside COAF’s Youredjian Scholarships & Career Development Program in 2025

For more than two decades, the Youredjian Scholarship Program—made possible through the enduring generosity of Jack Youredjian and the Youredjian Family Foundation—has been one of COAF’s most impactful investments in Armenia’s future. What began as a commitment to help rural youth access higher education has grown into a comprehensive platform supporting academic success, career readiness, civic engagement, and leadership.

338 Scholarships, 47 Communities, One Shared Opportunity

In 2025, 338 COAF alumni received Youredjian Scholarships, enabling students from 47 communities across five regions of Armenia—Armavir, Aragatsotn, Tavush, Shirak, and Lori—to pursue higher education and vocational training.

Scholarship holders are studying 56 different professions, spanning medicine, information technology, economics, law, international relations, education, architecture, psychology, aviation, culinary arts, speech therapy, and fine arts. For many students, the scholarship represents more than financial support—it is a bridge between talent and opportunity, allowing them to continue their education with confidence and a strong sense of responsibility toward their communities.

Beyond Scholarships: Preparing Students for the Real World

In 2025, COAF’s Alumni & Civic Education team further strengthened the program’s focus on career readiness and personal development. Six targeted employability trainings were delivered to 138 first- and second-year scholarship holders, covering self-awareness and emotional literacy, as well as an introduction to artificial intelligence. These sessions helped students build critical thinking, adaptability, and self-management skills essential for today’s evolving labor market.

From Campus to Career: “On the Way to the Labor Market”

On June 13, COAF partnered with the Armenian HR Association to host a one-day career workshop for 150 scholarship holders titled “On the Way to the Labor Market.” Through thematic talks, practical masterclasses, and an HR “market” featuring specialists from 10 organizations, students gained firsthand insights into recruitment processes, workplace expectations, and how to position their skills competitively.

Learning Through Community and Dialogue

The Youredjian Scholarship Program continued to foster a vibrant student community through clubs and extracurricular initiatives, with participation significantly expanding compared to previous years. Highlights included 22 debate tournament games, 15 “What? Where? When?” games, and 4 COAF Talks events featuring 77 speakers across Yerevan and Tavush.

The English Club also expanded to 12 level-based groups, meeting twice weekly from February through June and culminating in a shared Educational Picnic—up from seven groups the previous year.

Inspiring Conversations and Real-World Exposure

Students engaged in meaningful dialogue with leaders shaping global innovation, including a special meeting with Rev Lebaredian, who shared his professional journey and reflections on Armenia’s future through computer graphics, simulation technologies, and the upcoming Firebird AI data center.

In parallel, COAF organized a financial literacy training in collaboration with the Central Bank of Armenia and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), giving students practical insights into financial systems and economic decision-making.

Opening Doors to Public Service

Building on last year’s success, COAF and the RA Ministry of Finance signed a renewed memorandum of cooperation, enabling scholarship holders to complete two-month internships within the Ministry. The program offers students firsthand exposure to public-sector systems while bringing fresh perspectives into state institutions.

Giving Back to Communities

In 2025, scholarship holders implemented 183 community development projects across five regions of Armenia. These initiatives addressed local needs while strengthening students’ civic responsibility, with outstanding projects recognized through special nominations.

Closing the Year Together

The year concluded with a large-scale annual wrap-up meeting, bringing together 270 scholarship holders for simulation-based activities focused on negotiation, public speaking, teamwork, critical thinking, and decision-making—reflecting the program’s holistic approach to youth development.

A Legacy That Continues

The Youredjian Scholarship Program stands as a testament to the power of sustained commitment. Thanks to Jack Youredjian and the Youredjian Family Foundation, hundreds of COAF alumni continue their educational journeys each year—equipped not only with financial support, but with skills, values, and a deep connection to their communities.

As COAF looks ahead, the program remains a cornerstone of its mission: empowering rural youth to shape Armenia’s future.

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