Armenian Inventors – Science Inside Out: Official opening ceremony of a new public playground
On May 4, the official opening ceremony of a new public playground titled “Armenian Inventors – Science Inside Out” took place in Missak Manouchian Park in Yerevan. The project is an initiative of the “Keron” Development Foundation, carried out in partnership with the Kentron Administrative District, and with support of Paper company.
This project is a continuation of the initiative to create public playgrounds implemented by the Keron Development Foundation. The previous two playgrounds, Karmrakhayt: Secrets of the Hidden River (Circular park, section 6, in the vicinity of Gregory the Illuminator cathedral) and Vishapagorg: Memory of the Tree of Life (Khachkar Park, next to Republic Square) have already set new standards in the development of public playground spaces, combining the urban environment, cultural heritage, and the development of children’s creative thinking. Like the previous two, the new playground is created in accordance with international standards. It is a safe, inclusive, and creative public environment designed for children aged 3 to 12.
Covering an area of approximately 700 square meters, the playground stands out with its thematic design. It is inspired by Armenian scientific thought and is created to allow children to explore the world of science through play. The centerpiece of the space is a 6-meter-high tower, around which the entire scenario is built, featuring interactive elements that introduce key concepts in physics, astronomy, and engineering.
The playground consists of several thematic zones. The main tower area incorporates climbing nets, slides, and scientific panels, symbolizing discovery and innovation. There is also a separate zone with a small interactive labyrinth to encourage exploration skills and logical thinking in children.
The playground features inclusive elements, ensuring equal opportunities for all children. It combines play and education, supporting children’s physical, social, and intellectual development, while also introducing them to the achievements of outstanding Armenian scientists.
In the opening ceremony, speeches were delivered by Petros Petoyan, Head of the Kentron Administrative District, Vanane Ararktsyan, Executive Director of the Keron Development Foundation, and Karina Ayvazova, Executive Director of Paper Story Company.
Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan also attended the playground’s opening ceremony. He congratulated everyone on the new playground, expressed his gratitude to Keron and its partners, and emphasized that providing a safe and welcoming environment for children is one of the most important functions.
Petros Petoyan, Head of the Kentron Administrative District, noted in his speech: “ The dream and idea we had years ago is becoming a reality today. And seeing the children smile, we realize that we truly did something right.”
Vanane Ararktsyan, Executive Director of the Keron Development Foundation said: “I welcome you all to the opening of our third and final playground. Like the previous two, this playground also boasts educational elements. Here, children will learn about Armenian inventors and their groundbreaking inventions through play, almost without realizing it. It may seem like a small effort—700 square meters of improved space here, around 1,000 square meters near Republic Square, 2,000 square meters in Circular Park, renovations at the Yerevan State Medical University Library, restoration of historical buildings to international standards, the Saryan Steps, and you name it! Yet we believe that well-designed, cared-for public spaces, beauty, attention, and a city transformed to the highest standards can change us all and help our children grow into more intelligent and open-minded individuals.”
Karina Ayvazova, CEO of Paper story, noted: “We are very grateful to the Keron Foundation for giving us such an opportunity to be part of this beautiful playground. At Paper, we believe that even the smallest steps can lead to great initiatives. We hope that our kiddos here will take such small steps of development that will guide them toward even greater achievements in the future.”
The festive day was filled with a warm and joyful atmosphere, featuring hospitality, workshops, scientific experiments, and a variety of entertainment for the children.
