Winter 2024, Issue 39

QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

SYUNIK-DEVELOPMENT NGO

Syunik-Development NGO
 EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES:
SYUNIK-DEVELOPMENT COMMUNAL NGO'S
HUMANITARIAN INITIATIVES IN VAYOTS DZOR REGION
SYUNIK-DEVELOPMENT COMMUNAL
NGO SUPPORTS KHNDZORUT
SETTLEMENT HEALTH POST:
For over 28 years, Syunik-Development Commu-
nal NGO has steadfastly dedicated itself to sup-
por�ng border se�lements. In collabora�on
with and funded by the Embassy of the Federal
Republic of Germany, the NGO successfully exe-
cuted a sub-grant project aimed at enhancing
the Health Post of the border guard Khndzorut
se�lement in the Vayots Dzor region.
This ini�a�ve included intensive training for
medical personnel and the provision of crucial
medical supplies, equipment, and property.
Addi�onally, within the project's framework, the
staff at the primary health center in the consoli-
dated Zaritap community of Vayots Dzor under-
went specialized training facilitated by therapist
Gayane Grigoryan, who is a beneficiary of
Syunik-Development Communal NGO's integra-
�on project.
The project reached its zenith with an event on
December 8, a�ended by dis�nguished individu-
als.
During the event, a�endees were introduced to
the project's objec�ves and the medical equip-
ment, supplies, and property acquired through
its successful implementa�on. Addi�onally, chil-
dren from the Khndzorut se�lement added a
cultural dimension to the occasion by showcas-
ing ethnographic dances.
HARNESSING SOLAR POWER: SYUNIK-
DEVELOPMENT COMMUNAL NGO DRIVES
RENEWABLE ENERGY INITIATIVES IN
VAYOTS DZOR REGION:
In the global fight against climate change, the
impera�ve of embracing energy efficiency and
renewable energy sources has never been clearer.
Recognizing this urgency, Syunik-Development
Communal NGO has been at the forefront of
advancing sustainable energy solu�ons. One shi-
ning example of impac�ul work is the successful
implementa�on of solar energy projects, exempli-


fied by the transforma�on of the Yeghegnadzor
Regional Museum SNOC and the Mashtots Pub-
lishing House Fund.
Tradi�onally reliant on conven�onal energy sour-
ces, the Yeghegnadzor Regional Museum SNOC
and Mashtots Publishing House Fund were spen-
ding a substan�al amount on electricity and gas
annually. However, with the support of the NGO’s
project, Improvement of Income Possibili�es in
Rural Areas of Armenia, these buildings have em-
braced renewable energy by transi�oning to solar
power.
By harnessing solar energy, the museum and pub-
lishing house fund have not only slashed their
opera�onal costs but have also embarked on a
path toward sustainability and self-sufficiency.
The installa�on of a 10 KV solar plant, facilitated by
the NGO, marks a pivotal moment in the muse-
um’s and publishing house fund’s journey. These
solar plants not only meet the energy demands
but also generate surplus energy, which is chan-
12
neled towards addressing the ins�tu�on’s priori-
ty needs.
Beyond the tangible benefits of cost savings and
energy independence, the transi�on to solar
power underscores these buildings’ commit-
ment to environmental stewardship and com-
munity engagement.
It’s worth men�oning that this project was made
possible through the enduring support of the
NGO’s partner, the German Bread for the World
organiza�on, demonstra�ng their commitment
to sustainable development.
SUPPORT TO SOCIALLY MARGINALIZED
PEOPLE LIVING IN THE BORDER VILLAGES
AND DISPLACED PEOPLE:
Syunik-Development Communal NGO con�nues
to provide valuable support, facilitated by the
German Bread for the World organiza�on. This
support falls within the framework of our pro-
ject which aims to assist socially vulnerable
groups on the border and those displaced to the
Vayots Dzor region of Armenia due to the war in
Ukraine.
The primary objec�ves of the project are two-
fold: Firstly, to integrate socially vulnerable
border groups into the labor market for econo-
mic stabiliza�on, and secondly, to facilitate the
integra�on of Ukrainians who have relocated to
the region due to the Russian-Ukrainian war,
thereby ensuring and improving their socio-eco-
nomic life. To achieve these goals, the NGO has
implemented and con�nues to offer integra�on
courses, Armenian language courses, and legal
and psychological counseling.
The integra�on courses cover a range of topics
aimed at fostering skills and opportuni�es for
the targeted groups. Legal and psychological
consulta�ons are conducted every month, with
mee�ngs organized as necessary to address spe-
cific needs.
UNICEF’S ADOLESCENTS AS AGENTS OF
CLIMATE ACTION IN THEIR COMMUNITIES
PROJECT SUB-GRANT COMPONENT IN
VAYOTS DZOR AND SYUNIK REGIONS CON-
CLUDES:
During its winter ac�vi�es, Syunik-Development
Communal NGO also recaps the closing event of


the Adolescents as Agents of Climate Ac�on in
their Communi�es Project.
The event, held at the Lucy Tour Resort, marked
the culmina�on of months of dedicated effort. It
highlighted the sub-grant component, which
selected 23 projects from a compe��ve pool of
74 applica�ons spanning municipal govern-
ments, schools, and non-governmental organi-
za�ons.
The project emphasized the importance of sus-
taining ini�a�ves involving children and
youth. It outlined the implementa�on process,
challenges faced, and notable outcomes
achieved throughout its dura�on. The event
concluded with the presenta�on of cer�ficates
to the 23 partner organiza�ons involved in the
project.
13
Expressions of gra�tude, construc�ve sugges-
�ons, and an�cipa�on for future collabora�ons
filled the atmosphere. It’s essen�al to reiterate
that the sub-grant projects aimed at mi�ga�ng
and reducing the impact of climate change. They
focused on educa�on, early warning systems,
strengthening local government bodies, and
capacity development, aligning with Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs), and na�onal, and
UN development priori�es. Funded by the Aus-
trian Development Agency (ADA) through
UNICEF, in collabora�on with the RA Ministries
of Environment, Territorial Administra�on and
Infrastructure, Educa�on, Science, Culture, and
Sports, the Adolescents as Agents of Climate
Ac�on in their Communi�es Project was a joint
effort. The sub-grant component in Vayots Dzor
and Syunik regions was successfully implemen-
ted by Syunik-Development Communal
NGO.
TEACHERS ENHANCE THEIR
UNDERSTANDING OF A CULTURE OF
PEACE, PEACEBUILDING, AND PEACE
EDUCATION WITHIN THEIR SCHOOL
COMMUNITIES:
The two-phase training course on Conflict Trans-
forma�on and Peace Building was successfully
conducted as part of the Youth for Peace project
by Syunik-Development Communal NGO.
The Youth for Peace project is carried out by the
NGO with the support of its longstanding part-
ner, the Swiss organiza�on HEKS-EPER. In soci-
ety, teachers serve as crucial conduits for sha-
ping and dissemina�ng the principles of peace.
The primary objec�ve of this course was to raise
awareness among educators and propagate
these ideals within educa�onal ins�tu�ons.
Throughout the training sessions, par�cipants
engaged in discussions covering various
topics including the role of conflict, conflict ana-
lysis, manifesta�ons of conflicts, coopera�on,
and prac�cal exercises. These components were
designed to solidify the theore�cal knowledge
imparted during the course.
Of the 27 teachers who par�cipated in the
two-phase training project, many shared the
knowledge and experiences gained with their
colleagues and students within their
respec�ve educa�onal ins�tu�ons. Upon com-
ple�on of the training, par�cipants received
manuals on conflict transforma�on. The course
was facilitated by Serob Khachatryan, an
esteemed expert in educa�on and a lecturer at
Yerevan State University (YSU).


IMPROVEMENT OF INCOME POSSIBILITIES
IN RURAL AREAS OF ARMENIA THROUGH
THE PROMOTION OF LOCAL PRODUCTION:
A�er the Nagorno-Karabagh/Artsakh war of
2020, many people rese�led in Armenia. Artyom
Sargsyan, one of the refugees who chose to
se�le in the Vayots Dzor region, founded a So�
Drinks Manufacturing Company with Artur
Rustamyan in the Agarakadzor se�lement in
2022.
Opera�ng for a year, the company is poised to
expand its produc�on capaci�es, emphasizing a
commitment to accelera�ng the overall produc-
�on process.
Based on the importance of promo�ng local
products in the region, the Syunik-Development
Communal NGO, under the Improvement of
Income Possibili�es in Rural Areas of Armenia
Project, has extended support to the ArtLime
So� Drinks Manufacturing Company. This assis-
tance includes a cu�ng-edge blocking device,
increasing the produc�on speed from 80 bo�les
4
per hour to 250-300 bo�les per hour. Acquired
through the sub-grant project of an NGO, this
equipment empowers the company to stream-
line produc�on, augment output, penetrate new
markets, and generate employment opportuni-
�es in tandem with increased produc�on. It is
worth no�ng that this project was implemented
with the support of the German Bread for the
World organiza�on.
ARTISAN FAIR UNITES DISPLACED
MASTERS IN ARMENIA’S CULTURAL
RENAISSANCE:
Ahead of 2024, ar�san masters residing in
regions of Armenia and Yerevan, who were forci-
bly displaced from Nagorno Karabagh/Artsakh,
had an opportunity to par�cipate in an exhibi-
�on fair organized by the Union of Ar�sans of
Armenia Cultural Fund and the Teryan Cultural
Center NGO.
During the exhibi�on fair, various organiza�ons
showcased holiday decora�ons, toys, souvenirs,
and handicra�s. The Jermuk Community Center
also par�cipated in the New Year exhibi�on fair,
where young women from the center show-
cased their handicra�s.
Par�cipants not only had an opportunity to sell
their products but also to establish new coope-
ra�ve rela�onships.
It՛s worth no�ng that Ba�k Courses for crea�ng
handmade items are conducted by the
Syunik-Development Communal NGO as part of
the Improvement of Income Possibili�es in Rural
Areas of Armenia Project. The project aims to
empower women, facilitate the transi�on from
unemployment to self-employment, and estab-
lish sustainable income sources.
EMERGENCY INITIATIVES
IN THE VAYOTS DZOR REGION
CONTINUED COMMITMENT: ASSESSING
SUPPORT FOR DISPLACED COMPATRIOTS
FROM NAGORNO- KARABAGH (NK)/ARTSAKH:
A GRATITUDE NOTE TO PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS
AND INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTERS:
In the wake of the devasta�ng war in NK/Artsakh
that began in September, Syunik-Development
NGO has been �relessly working to provide relief
and support to the displaced people of the
NK/Artsakh. As we reflect on the past months,
we are overwhelmed with gra�tude for the
unwavering support we have received from
partner organiza�ons and individual supporters.
Since the onset of the crisis, partner organiza-
�ons’s contribu�ons have enabled us to launch
and sustain numerous projects aimed at assis-
�ng those who have been displaced from their
homes and communi�es. From providing essen-
�al humanitarian aid to implemen�ng long-term
development programs, their support has been
instrumental in our efforts to alleviate the suffe-
ring of the affected popula�ons.
Through the generous contribu�ons of our part-
ners and individual supporters, we have been
able to implement a range of projects to support
the displaced people of NK/Artsakh. These ini�a-
�ves include:
- Emergency Relief Assistance.
- Psychosocial Support Projects.
- Educa�on and Livelihood Opportuni�es.
- Shelter Rehabilita�on.
These projects, made possible by the generosity
of our donors and partners, have been instru-
mental in providing vital assistance and support
to those in need. We are deeply grateful for their
15
con�nued support and partnership as we work The quick coordina�on and effec�ve implemen-
together to rebuild and restore hope for the ta�on of the project have not only offered shel-
displaced communi�es of NK/Artsakh. ter but have also empowered our compatriots to
secure apartments, fostering stability and
ENSURING THE STAY OF FORCIBLY enabling them to envision a future in the Vayots
DISPLACED PEOPLE FROM NK/ARTSAKH Dzor region.
IN HOST FAMILIES OF THE VAYOTS DZOR
REGION: JOYFUL CELEBRATION: CHILDREN FROM
NAGORNO-KARABAGH/ARTSAKH EMBRACE
In collabora�on with Syunik-Development Com- THE HOLIDAYS IN SIRANUYSH CAMP:
munal NGO, the Atken Armenian Founda�on
(AAF) ini�ated a project aimed at addressing the Despite the challenges posed by their displace-
challenges of livelihood for forcibly displaced ment, these young souls have found solace and
people, intending to make the Vayots Dzor strength in unity, transforming their temporary
region their home and workplace. refuge into a space of joy, crea�vity, and shared
Through dona�ons organized by the AAF, the hope.
families of Vayots Dzor are hos�ng forcibly
displaced people from NK/Artsakh, with finan-
cial support and the condi�on of living together.
Vayots Dzor region, with significantly lower
housing costs compared to Yerevan, provides a
promising opportunity to create a safe and wel-
coming environment for forcibly displaced
people and families from NK/Artsakh.
The primary objec�ve of the project is to assist
forcibly displaced people in finding shelter in the
region, despite the housing shortage in the
country. The project, in 2024, has resulted in 18
contracts, accommoda�ng 87 forcibly displaced
On December 28, 2023, a vibrant fes�ve atmos-
people in host families. Importantly, the number
phere enveloped the Siranuysh camp of the
of these contracts con�nues to grow day by day.
Vayots Dzor Diocese as NK/Artsakh children
The jointly implemented project is financed by
gathered for a New Year celebra�on filled with
the Atken Armenian Founda�on and is imple-
poems, songs, and dances.
mented under the direct supervision of
The Canadian Atken Armenian Founda�on and
Syunik-Development Communal NGO.
KASA Swiss Humanitarian Founda�on generous-
ly provided New Year’s gi�s to the 51 children
who par�cipated in and a�ended the event,
further enhancing their excitement for the
upcoming holidays.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS: TESTIMONIES OF

HARDSHIP FROM FORCIBLY DISPLACED PEOPLE
OF NAGORNO-KARABAGH/ARTSAKH:
Margarita Ishkhanyan, one of our compatriots
forcibly displaced from the NK/Artsakh, also

16
sought shelter in the Siranuysh camp of the
Vayots Dzor Diocese. Margarita was displaced
from NK/Artsakh for the second �me and found
a refuge camp.
During the 44-day war of 2020, Margarita and
her two children were displaced from the Shushi
in NK/Artsakh and found temporary shelter in
the Siranuysh camp.
On September 19, 2023, Margarita’s family
faced the same fate and were displaced from
Stepanakert, where she lived when she lost her
house in Shushi.
On September 19, 2023, when Margarita was at
home and had just picked up her daughter from
school, and her son was staying in school, she
heard a loud explosion.
She decided to leave everything, took her chil-
dren, and le�.
They stayed on the road for about two days,
without water and food, struggling to leave
NK/Artsakh.
Margarita is a nurse by profession. A�er moving
to the camp, a Health Post was created next to
her room with the support of German, Swiss,
and Danish partner organiza�ons, where she
works as a nurse and quickly responds to
pa�ents who need first aid.
Margarita is s�ll trying to adapt, this �me with a
li�le difficulty, but the children have already
adapted; they are going to the primary school of
Hermon se�lement and have become close to
their new home and environment.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: TESTIMONIES
OF HARDSHIP FROM PEOPLE OF
NAGORNO-KARABAGH/ARTSAKH:
Nver Ghahramanyan was displaced from NK/Art-
sakh on September 19, 2023. Nver Ghahra-
manyan, 36-year-old, from the picturesque
Sghnakh village in the Askeran region of NK/Art-
sakh, embodies the strength and adaptability of
individuals faced with the challenges of displace-
ment. Nver’s life took an unexpected turn during
the 44-day war of 2020.
Before the war, Nver had a good life in Sghnakh,
living with his parents and pursuing studies at
Stepanakert Agricultural College, specializing in
Electrical Supply. Despite his educa�on, he never
had an opportunity to work in his chosen field.
Instead, Nver found his job in two diverse areas-
cooking and construc�on.
The war upheaved the tranquility of Sghnakh as
Azerbaijani forces occupied the village, compel-
ling Nver and his family to relocate to Shosh
village in the Askeran region. A year later, Nver,
driven by the desire to contribute and make a
living, moved to Stepanakert. In NK/Artsakh, his
culinary skills served as a means of deligh�ng his
loved ones, but he engaged in various occupa-
�ons such as construc�on, agriculture, farming,
and animal husbandry to generate income.
Un�l the war of 2023, the Nver’s family commit-
ment to their homeland manifested as both
brothers enlisted in the NK/Artsakh army - the
elder as a contract soldier and the younger as a
conscript. Amidst the chaos of war, the brothers
reassured their family members, ini�ally down-
playing the severity of the situa�on. When
circumstances took a dire turn, the family, with
the help of friends, made a perilous journey to
the Stepanakert.
Their refuge in Armenia became a turning point.
A�er registering, and se�ling housing ma�ers
with the assistance of their elder brother’s
friend, the family found themselves in the
Siranuysh camp in the Vayots Dzor region.
In the Siranuysh camp, Nver’s culinary exper�se
has become a source of joy for its inhabitants.
17
Despite the comfort found in this new communi- returning to the land that holds his heart, sym-
ty, Nver harbors a deep longing for NK/Artsakh, bolized by the echoes of the church bells that
yearning to return home and once again hear resonate in his memories.
the bells of St. Ghazanchetsots Church.
Nver Ghahramanyan’s story is not just one of
displacement; it is a testament to the unwaver-
ing spirit of those who, against the odds, find
solace and purpose in the face of adversity. As
he con�nues to live in the Siranuysh camp,
Nver’s dreams remain anchored in the hope of




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Office of Interna�onal & Public Affairs Tel/Fax: +374(281) 20409

Syunik Development NGO Email: syunikngo@gmail.com
www.syunikngo.am
Momik St.5, 3601 Yeghegnadzor
Vayots Dzor Province, Armenia

Syunik-Development NGO Public Rela�ons Officer: Anna Gyulnazaryan


Syunik-Development NGO Graphic Designer: Artashes Hakobyan 1