Armenia’s AI strategy starts in the classroom

How can a small country like Armenia compete in the global AI race? Suzanna Shamakhyan, Executive Director of the Foundation for Armenian Science and Technology (FAST), says the answer is through ensuring the quality, not quantity, of the country’s future experts. FAST has a multi-layered approach to AI education, including its Generation AI school program, which trains future engineers and researchers starting from high school. Shamakhyan explains why AI literacy, diaspora engagement, and time-sensitive action are essential for Armenia to build a resilient tech ecosystem and turn today’s challenges into a strategic national advantage.