A practical seminar discussion devoted to the issues of volunteer work was held at Armenian State Pedagogical University (ASPU) within the framework of collaboration between
the ASPU and “Huysi Kamurj” (“Bridge of Hope”) NGO.
It was launched at the Pedagogical University as part of the program “Implementation of Inclusive Education.”
Students were familiarized with the essence of volunteer work, the essential qualities and aptitudes that make a volunteer and other issues relating to volunteering.
Generally, volunteering is described as an unpaid, conscious and altruistic activity intended to benefit others. It gives an opportunity to young people to be involved in public life and influence on it. A volunteer not only fulfills the instructions of an organization, but also acquires experience: volunteers work free of charge.
Students actively participated in the seminar, implemented group work, determined and presented the advantages and disadvantages of volunteer work.
As they said volunteering is the manifestation of one’s free will for the benefit of society. It is disinterested, serves the society through personal skills or learning. It is a form of charity, a good opportunity to gain experience, knowledge, social responsibility, a chance to share one’s skills with others and the like.
In the historical glimpse it was mentioned that even Bible verses about volunteering. The first international volunteer project was implemented during the World War I when a group of French youth helped people rebuild their houses destroyed during the war.
“With the help of the seminar we try to inform students of volunteering and prepare them to perform volunteer services on an as-needed basis,” said Christine Asatryan, a representative of “Huysi Kamurj” NGO.
The participants were also informed about the areas volunteers can work in, types of volunteer work, and international volunteer opportunities and programs.
Student volunteers were grouped according to their preferences and professional qualities. In conclusion, the participants said there are many organizations in Armenia that give an opportunity to be engaged in volunteer work but the school for volunteers is not established yet. We are on the path of establishing it,” said the participants of the discussion.
