LESSON OF PATRIOTISM

NOYAN TAPAN – ARMENIANS TODAY
SEPTEMBER 2, 2009
ABOVIAN

Day of Knowledge at school No 6 in the city of Abovian was marked by
a festive event on the occasion of naming 8a class after the great
Armenian philanthropist Alex Manoogian. The decision to name 8a class
after the Honorary President of the Armenian General Benevolent Union
(AGBU) was taken by the council of pupils.

The pupils showed a play about the victory of good over evil. The
scene of the play accompanied by songs and dancing and presenting the
image of the Armenian benefactor Alex Manoogian was set in Western
Armenia. More than 20 pupils of the class named after A. Manoogian
vowed to remain true to Alex Manoogian’s cause and traditions. They
were congratulated by the pupils of 6b class after Garegin Nzhdeh.

The event was attended by the RA Minister of Diaspora Ms. Hranush
Hakobian who quoted Movses Khorenatsi’s words that the ignorance
established wickedness. She said: "The main character of our lesson
today is Alex Manoogian, who was a prominent representative of the
Armenian people and an embodiment of kindness". Speaking about Alex
Manoogian’s activities to the benefit of the Armenian nation, she
reminded that the great philanthropist funded the creation of numerous
schools, cultural centers, and churches in Armenian colonies worldwide.

Ms. Hakobian stated with satisfaction that the Ministry of Diaspora
has launched a series of events called "Great Armenians", with over
70 events being dedicated to Alex Manoogian. The initiative received
an enthusiastic response from many Armenian schools.

The minister said that the activities of Alex Manoogian should become
a guideline, "based on which and with the help of our kbowledge and
kindness, we should build our Homeland, bring the Homeland and the
Diaspora together, while Armenia should provide the greatest support
for the Armenians scattered around the world".

On the occasion of Day of Knowledge and in connection with the naming
of 8a class after Alex Manoogian, the headmistress of school No 6
Greta Kroyan and London-based teacher Lily Adamian made speeches. The
latter said that Alex Manoogian was well-liked in the Diaspora as well
because he helped all schools, regardless of what party or union had
founded them.