UNICEF launches its alternative model of early learning in Privolnoe on the International Day of Child Protection

The Human Rights Defender of Armenia and UNICEF visited Privolnoe settlement of Tashir consolidated community on the International Day of Child Protection, 1 June, where the events brought together over 100 students of the school. The events were also attended by state officials, representatives of the regional administration and co-founder of Aznavour Foundation, Nicholas Aznavour. 

The Human Rights Defender of Armenia Anahit Manasyan noted that the protection of children’s rights is of utmost importance to her. She emphasized that regardless of where children live, they should be able to enjoy all their rights and have the opportunity to do so. “It’s important to me that children have the necessary enabling environment optimal for their development. Hence my decision to visit Privolnoe together with UNICEF was not by chance,” noted Anahit Manasyan. “Dear parents, teachers, partners, I also want to reiterate the importance of our own positive behaviors for children. We must not forget that even if children don’t always listen to us, they excel at imitating us or following our lead.”

“The dialogue with children at the school was very informative. As we mark the 35^th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child this year, it is imperative to cast another look at the situation of children and listen to what they have to say to further guide our future work,” said UNICEF Representative in Armenia Christine Weigand.

The child rights dialogue at the school aimed to promote children’s right to participation, voicing their opinions and being heard. It provided students at Privolnoe school with a unique platform to talk about issues that concern them and discuss those with various technical experts. The thematic discussions were notably shaped by Human Rights Defender’s office, young members of the HRD council on children’s and youth issues and UNICEF. Students at the school also took turns in showcasing their musical talents.

Anahit Manasyan also joined UNICEF in the launch of the alternative model of early learning service in Privolnoe. She highlighted the vital role of children’s services such, as preschools and schools, for the long-term development of communities across Armenia.

“The early period in life provides a critical window of opportunity for girls and boys to build the foundations of learning and develop skills that can help them succeed in school and over the course of their lives. Thanks to early childhood education, by the time a child enters grade one, the foundations for success are already in place,” noted UNICEF Representative in Armenia Mrs Christine Weigand.

The new preschool center in Privolnoe was established by UNICEF in partnership with the community and marz administration, in coordination with the RA Ministries of Education, Science, Culture and Sports (MoESCS), and of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure and with the financial support of the European Union.