Hidden Road Initiative

Scholar Projects from the 2022-2023 Academic Year

Here are the projects and programs implemented by our scholars. 

Akhpradzor Youth Center Renovation
by Ara-Geghecik Abrahamyan from European University of Armenia

To expand the Henry Keledjian Service project, Ara-Geghecik furnished the Akhpradzor Youth Center, which he helped renovate last year with my classmates. Using the service fund, Ara-Geghecik purchased furniture, supplies, and educational games to create a welcoming space. For the past three months, students from Akhpradzor and Makenis have gathered at the center for after-school programs, dance classes, and vocational training.

Akhpradzor Youth Center
by Tatul Abrahamyan from Khachatur Abovyan Armenian State Pedagogical University​

As the director of the Akhpradzor Youth Center, Tatul aims to improve students' learning, college readiness, and leadership skills. The center quickly became a vital hub, transforming students' lives and inspiring them to become leaders, with many workshops. By facilitating debates and discussions, Tatul is helping students develop their speaking skills, encouraging them to share their ideas and embrace learning.


​Akhpradzor Salon
by Arusik Ghazaryan, Zara Abrahmayan, and Hasmik Aghapekyan from Armenian State Pedagogical, Vardenis Badeyan College, and Lusinka Training Center of Vardenis

As part of their Henry Keledjian Service Project, Zara, Arusik, and Hasmik opened the very first salon in Akhpradzor village, located inside the Youth Center. Every Saturday and Sunday, the girls provide free classes to youth from local villages. When they're not teaching, the girls strengthen their business skills and provide hair and nail care services to the local women.

College Mentorship for "At-risk" Youth 
by Serine Poghosyan from Yerevan State University

In response to the challenge of college admission for "At-Risk" youth, Serine mentored two girls last year, both of whom graduated and now work at the Akhpradzor Youth Center and run private businesses. This year, Serine supported four high school students from Akhpradzor, helping two successfully apply to college despite initial family resistance. She guided them through career choices, paperwork, and communication with institutions, and will continue to follow up with them.

Makenis Carpentry Workshop
by Smbat Hovhannisyan from Khachatur Abovian Armenian State Pedagogical University

Smbat established the first Carpentry Workshop in Makenis village to provide vocational training and extracurricular activities for the youth. Students enthusiastically learned carpentry skills, creating souvenirs and building two tree-shaped bookcases, which they gifted to the Makenis school and Akhpradzor Youth Center. 

Makenis Chemistry Lab
​by Laura Manukyan from Yerevan State University

For years, Makenis school lacked a functional chemistry lab, so using the Scholar Service Fund, chemical supplies and equipment were purchased to create one. Collaborating with the local chemistry teacher, the goal was to provide hands-on learning and experiments for students. This initiative fostered a deeper love for science and gave students practical experience alongside their theoretical knowledge.

Akhpradzor Quest
by Lilit Manukyan from Armenian State University of Economics

This year, Lilit organized the first-ever Akhpradzor Quest, an interactive game designed to showcase the beauty of Akhpradzor, attract tourists, and collect books for the village’s youth center. Participants from Armenia and the Diaspora engaged in a treasure hunt, exploring hidden areas of the village, followed by dancing and singing at a mountain peak. The event concluded with awards, book donations, and a bonfire celebration.​

Shvanidzor Quest
by Natush Makhshudyan and Naira Gharakhanyan from National Polytechnic and from Brusov State University

"Shvani Quest" was a touristic excursion designed to showcase the hidden beauty of Shvanidzor, Syunik, the southernmost village in Armenia. Sixteen tourists from around the world participated in activities like lavash-making, cow-milking, and visiting historic sites, providing an immersive experience of the village's traditions and history. The event also featuring villagers' craftsmanship and hosted guests in local homes.

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