AraratBank: Supporting the Creation of Wonder Kid Academy’s Astronomical Laboratory
Through support provided within the framework of AraratBank’s social responsibility programs, a state-of-the-art astronomical laboratory for children aged 7-18 has been established at Wonder Kid Academy operating in Gyumri.
From Dream to Reality
For two years now, seven-year-old Daniel has been visiting Wonder Kid Academy twice a week to discover the secrets of the universe. Thanks to studying at this academy located in one of Gyumri’s charming corners, little Daniel already possesses deep knowledge about planets and space travel. From now on, he and many other children like him will have broader opportunities to expand their knowledge base.
The Success of the Social Impact Award Program
In October 2024, the Social Impact Award (SIA) ceremony was held with the support of AraratBank. Each of the 4 winning teams of this program — implemented by Impact Hub Yerevan — was provided by AraratBank with the equivalent of 1,500 euros in Armenian drams.
The four winning teams were Astronomy for Everyone, ElectRoads, ReTyre Designs, and Hydroponic greenhouse.
Ultra-Modern Laboratory
Thanks to the monetary award allocated by AraratBank, a special astronomical room-laboratory has been created at Wonder Kid Academy, equipped with astronomical instruments including telescopes, microscopes, globes, educational games, books, and didactic materials.
“We thank AraratBank for supporting children interested in astronomy through its patronage, which helps keep alive their spark for science,” notes Mariam Martirosyan, founder and director of Wonder Kid Academy.
“Every child who enters this astronomical room-laboratory will immediately be captivated by the wonders of the universe,” assures Areg Mikayelyan, director of Byurakan Observatory. In his opinion, the practical knowledge gained in the laboratory and the corresponding equipment will contribute to this.
Long-term Cooperation
“The Social Impact Award program, which has been operating since 2009 in more than 25 countries and is also implemented in Yerevan by Impact Hub Yerevan under the leadership of Executive Director Gevorg Poghosyan, has created a unique platform that provides an opportunity for young social entrepreneurs to present business programs that contain a social component. Every year, AraratBank provides the prize fund for the SIA awards ceremony,” noted Anna Allahverdyan, Head of the Communication and CSR Programs Coordination Division at AraratBank.
A Unique Center in Gyumri
This center in Gyumri is the only one where children have the opportunity to discover the secrets of the universe and prepare for international astronomy competitions. With AraratBank, dreams come true, even the cosmic ones.
AraratBank is regulated by the Central Bank of Armenia.