top of page
Project Goal

Young women, aspiring youth, and IT teachers in Shirak's remote villages face significant barriers to education due to isolation and lack of transportation. The new IT Hub in Marmashen, funded by the Japanese Government, offers free tech education, but a minibus is needed to bridge the gap and make access possible.

Project Background

The Shirak region is one of Armenia's most impoverished areas, with a poverty rate of 46.3% and unemployment exceeding 20%, especially in rural communities. Limited transportation infrastructure further isolates these families from educational and employment opportunities.


At the Marmashen IT Hub, we aim to equip up to 1,000 women, youth, and IT teachers annually with essential skills in technology and engineering. Our curriculum includes:


  • Basic Computer Literacy: Fundamentals of computer use, internet navigation, and digital communication.

  • Programming & Coding: Training in Python, C++, and JavaScript to develop coding skills.

  • Engineering Skills: Hands-on experience in mechanical and electrical engineering, with a focus on sustainable product development.

  • Green Technology: Training in eco-friendly technologies like renewable energy systems and smart management solutions.


These programs empower individuals with the skills needed to improve their lives, create local job opportunities, and contribute to a more sustainable future in Shirak. However, the lack of transportation remains a significant barrier, preventing many potential participants from accessing the Hub.


By raising funds for a 15-seater minibus, we can overcome this obstacle, ensuring that education reaches those who need it most. Every contribution will give someone a seat on the bus, helping to bring life-changing opportunities to the women, youth, and teachers of Shirak’s remote villages.

Paul Deardorff

Hayk Harutyunyan

Murat & Eva Corluyan

Steven Migridichian

Charles Begian

Bartlomiej Jezierski

Ryan Safarian

Ashot (AJ) Karapetyan

Lusine Sahakyan

Alysia Ekizian

Max Logan

Ana Arakelyan

Araksya Sprecher

Heather Tarpinian

Elham Sadat Alavi Nasab

Gabriela Newell

Christine Ekchian

Michael Manoukian

Surik Sedrakyan

Gary Zakarian

Ty Edwards

Armen Meliksetyan

Hayk Hambardzumyan

Lara Varjabedian

Lara Varjabedian

St. Sarkis Women's Guild

Armenian Cultural Association of the Carolinas

Cole Tashjian

Nayiri Hajinian

Kirk Hourdajian

Anahid Telfeyan

Roza Melkumyan

Gary Hovsepian

Edgar Ch

Tsoleen Sarian

Mher Saribekyan

Amalya Yeghoyan

Cynthia Maghakian

Johnny Mouradian

Andrii Trapizonian

Sarah Stites

Supporters
35
Partner

November 18, 2024

Created on:

remaining

$25,099

(16%)

raised 

$4,901

$30,000

goal

1,000

beneficiary

Shirak

region

remaining days

Artsakhtsi children cozy and smiling under the warmth of blankets donated by Ayo!

(16%)

raised 

$4,901

Active Project

A Seat on the Bus

Category

bottom of page