Let's not use the expression "universities are going to close." We are in favor of opening new universities. Vahram Dumanyan, the Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports, stated this at the press briefing after Thursday’s Cabinet meeting of the government of Armenia—and commenting on the authorities' new initiative to make the number of state universities in the country to eight and move them from the capital Yerevan to Ashtarak city.

However, the minister noted that the new universities in Armenia must meet with all internationally recognized standards and norms.

"They should develop and become stronger. Services in terms of education should be at the highest level. There should be a competitive field," added Dumanyan.

At today's Cabinet session of the government, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan presented the plans to create an academic city in Ashtarak where the remaining eight consolidated state universities will be moved as a result of optimization.