Ahead of the 17th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP17), UN Secretary-General António Guterres arrived in Armenia. Today, accompanied by Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport Zhanna Andreasyan, he visited the TUMO Centre for Creative Technologies.

The UN Secretary-General was introduced to the Centre’s activities, its ongoing educational programs, innovative technological capabilities, and infrastructure.

During the visit, António Guterres met with young people attending the TUMO Centre, spoke with them, and learned about their interests. TUMO students particularly highlighted the Centre’s unique educational methodology, which combines self-directed learning with hands-on non-formal education, equipping them with relevant digital and creative skills.

“TUMO is a place where people are brought together by creativity and innovation. Here, young people explore their potential and discover their talents. We are very pleased that TUMO is now accessible in several countries, reaching different communities and young people,” said Minister Zhanna Andreasyan, thanking António Guterres for inspiring young people through his presence. She also emphasized that the skills acquired at TUMO can make a significant contribution to addressing biodiversity challenges, which are being discussed at COP17.

CEO of the TUMO Centre for Creative Technologies Marie Lou Papazian presented the Centre’s development strategy, including the ongoing expansion of its educational network—TUMO Centres and TUMO Boxes—in Armenia’s regions and border communities, as well as efforts to engage adolescents and young people in non-formal education. International cooperation initiatives and the expansion of the TUMO network worldwide were also discussed.