Armenia is investing more in science, technology and research, but the institutions and people needed to connect those investments remain underdeveloped. The result is a system of scientific oases without the infrastructure, talent and institutional links needed to turn them into sustained national capability. Lilit Margaryan explains.

Successive administrations in Armenia did not adequately invest in science and education, hindering the development of human capital and infrastructure. To register comprehensive progress, ensure sovereignty and security, a robust R&D ecosystem must be revived with the government playing an indispensable role.

The destruction of some historic buildings began in the Soviet era. That practice continued after the independence of Armenia. The Old Yerevan Project is meant to restore the architectural heritage of the capital city, however, progress has been slow and controversial.

Translated into several languages, Mariam Petrosyan’s epic novel “The Gray House” has enchanted readers across the world. In this first book review, Lilit Margaryan speaks with the elusive Petrosyan about her life and the life of a novel that took 18 years to write.