Armenian Government To Boost Astrophysics

ARMENIAN GOVERNMENT TO BOOST ASTROPHYSICS

ARKA
Sep 16, 2008

YEREVAN, September 16. /ARKA/. Astrophysics remains the focus of
Armenia’s government, Samvel Harutyunyan, head of the State Committee
on Education and Science, said Friday at the celebration of the 100th
anniversary of Armenian scientist Viktor Hambartsumyan.

He believes the reason for the country’s long-lasting regress in
science and other areas was the brain drain after the collapse of
the Soviet Union.

As Armenia has made an immense contribution to the progress of
modern astrophysics, the government should help the science regain
its worldwide glory, Harutyunyan said.

He called on the government to encourage young scientists to keep
them in Armenia. "A young talent will never remain unnoticed, and if
we fail to pay him, others will do that," Harutyunyan added.

"We should involve good specialists in scientific projects,"
Harutyunyan said, hoping the government would put forth all the
efforts to save Byurakan Observatory from total breakdown.

To foster scientific progress, the RA Ministry of Education and
Science has announced a competition for young researchers under
35. The government will sponsor the best projects and help young
graduates participate in international workshops and seminars.