Inspired by the new library project, YSMU donates an ancient manuscript to the Matenadaran

On November 15, the Keron Development Foundation, at the special invitation of Yerevan State Medical University (YSMU), participated in a significant event.

Ahead of Student Day and inspired by the university’s library renovation project, YSMU students spearheaded an initiative to acquire a medieval manuscript titled “The Benefits of Medicine” by the renowned medieval physician, naturalist, scholar, and lexicographer Amirdovlat Amasiatsi. This manuscript, copied over 300 years ago in the 18th century, was officially donated by the university to the the Research Institute of Ancient Manuscripts named after Mesrop Mashtots.

YSMU Rector Armen Muradyan, highlighting the importance of the occasion, expressed hope that this initiative could inspire students of other universities as well. “We are eagerly anticipating an event we initiated together with our partner, the Keron Foundation, in celebration of Student Day. This is about the new library—spacious, modern, innovative, and filled with great expectations. It will be the birthplace of future doctors and the intellectual core of Armenia’s medical profession. The library will serve as the brain and heart of our university. All of this is aimed at looking toward the future. However, medicine and universities are strong when they honor their teachers and glorious history,” said Rector Muradyan.

Vanane Araktsyan, Executive Director of the Keron Development Foundation, also made a speech during the ceremony. “It is an honor for us to be part of this historic day for the university. Though the foundation has only been operational for 6-7 months, I believe many of you are already familiar with the majority of the programs we’ve implemented. We have a big dream: by engaging the best talent and professional and launching transformative programs, we aim to change the mindset and environment in our country. ‘Keron’ means light, torch, and candle, and our projects are small sources of light that, when combined, will make our dream a reality. Education is one of these vital small lights. My father often said, ‘Without education, people become a crowd that is easily controlled.’ On this historic day, ahead of Student Day, I am pleased to announce that soon you will have a modern, digital, and inspiring environment that meets international standards. I am confident it will produce the best experts, shift worldviews, and bring us closer to our dream.”

As part of this momentous occasion, the Matenadaran also transferred a paper manuscript of the Shukhonts Avetaran, written in the 17th century, to the Soldier’s House, providing an opportunity for all who are interested to connect with the enduring power of this ancient manuscript.