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The World Bank Task Team Leader discussed the ‘’ Education Improvement Project Additional Financing " Loan Project Ongoing Activities with the Center for Education Projects PIU STAFF
20.10.2025
October 6–10 Marked by active discussions and meetings on education.
From October 6 to 10, Armenia hosted Education Specialist and World Bank Task Team Leader Mrs. Shizuka Konimoto. During her visit, Mrs. Konimoto met with various educational institutions and stakeholders to discuss ongoing projects and initiatives.
On October 6, the World Bank representative visited the Center of Excellence in Agricultural Robotics and Mechatronics being established at the Armenian National Agrarian University (ANAU) within the framework of the EIP AF “Competitive Innovation Fund” (CIF) component ,co-financed by the World Bank. The Center includes several state-of-the-art facilities — the Agrobot -LAB for agricultural robot design and development, the IT-Lab for programming, as well as new classrooms, laboratories, and offices.
The progress of the Center’s establishment was presented in detail to the World Bank representative. Hrachya Zakoyan, ANAU Rector welcomed the guests and accompanied Ms. Konimoto on a tour of the Center. During the visit, she interacted with the students enrolled in the new Agricultural Robotics and Mechatronics academic program. The students demonstrated their practical skills — using 3D modeling devices, operating a research drone, and testing robots designed for fertilization, crop treatment, and other agricultural applications.
It was noted that the program foresees the acquisition of a number of modern laboratory instruments and educational robots, some of which have already been installed, while others are in the process of delivery.After engaging in an open and pleasant conversation with the students, Ms. Konimoto highlighted that she was impressed by their determination and motivation.
The next stop for the World Bank delegation wasArmenian State Pedagogical University (ASPU), where the WB representative was introduced to the capabilities and activities of the Center of Excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).This modern, well-equipped Center is designed to enhance the methodological, research, and creative skills of pre-service and in-service teachers in physics, biology, chemistry, geography, technology (including engineering and mathematics), and informatics. It also includes laboratories, a modern hall for scientific events and training sessions, and a classroom for professional orientation and initial teaching practice.Mrs. Konimoto observed an ongoing class and spoke with future teachers about their learning experiences.
The visit ended at the Center for Educational Projects PIU, where discussions were focused on various operational and organizational matters.
