By Narek Tovmasyan, PhD, PMP®
This autumn, Armenia takes a bold step onto the global stage of hospitality education with the launch of the Swiss-Armenian Academy of Hospitality (SAAH) in Gyumri. Established in partnership with the world’s #1 hospitality management school, École Hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL), and in cooperation with the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), SAAH represents more than a school – it is the opening of new doors for Armenia’s future.
A Vision Rooted in Excellence
Founded in 2025 by Vahé Gabrache, AGBU Central Board Member, SAAH carries a clear mission: to provide world-class, practice-based hospitality education rooted in Swiss excellence and tailored to Armenia’s unique potential in the service and tourism sectors.
From culinary arts and F&B management to hotel operations, the Academy will train a new generation of industry-ready professionals through VET by EHL, an internationally recognized program offering three certification levels (Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced) leading to a Professional Diploma. Learning is complemented by real-world practice at the Grand Hotel Gyumri by Apricot Hotels, which now serves as the Academy’s campus, ensuring that students are trained in both theory and live guest-facing environments.
Why Gyumri? Why Now?
Locating the Academy in Gyumri is both symbolic and strategic. As Armenia’s cultural capital, Gyumri embodies the warmth of Armenian hospitality, its artistic heritage, and its untapped potential as a destination. By anchoring a Swiss-standard hospitality institution here, SAAH empowers the region to become a new hub for service excellence.
At the same time, the timing is urgent. Tourism in Armenia is growing rapidly, yet the hospitality sector faces a talent gap. Global hospitality trends demand professionals who can deliver experience-driven service, embrace digital transformation, and integrate sustainability as a baseline. SAAH is positioned to meet these challenges head-on.
A Compelling Investment for the Diaspora
For the Diaspora, SAAH is more than an educational institution—it is a platform for reconnection and impact. It merges Swiss quality with Armenian soul, creating opportunities for Diasporan families to contribute to a project that empowers Armenia’s youth while upholding its cultural pride.
The Academy’s scholarship model ensures inclusivity, making education accessible regardless of financial status. This aligns with AGBU’s long-standing mission to uplift communities through education. For young Armenians abroad, it is also an opportunity to study in Armenia while receiving a qualification that opens doors worldwide.
An example of repatriation is Vatché Yergatian, the Academy Director who thanks to the program decided to return to Armenia and invest his more than four decades of experience in establishing the Academy.
As Mr Yergatian, reminded future students: “When you graduate from this Academy, you will carry with you not only a diploma but a key to open doors in international hotel brands, luxury resorts, restaurants, and global event organizations.”
Impact Beyond Classrooms
SAAH is set to influence more than individual careers – it will shape the sector itself. By aligning with international best practices, it will raise national service standards, support private sector growth, and contribute to Armenia’s economic development. Partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and global organizations will further amplify its reach.
An Open Door to the Future
The opening of the Swiss-Armenian Academy of Hospitality is not merely the launch of a school – it is a turning point. It signals to the world that Armenia is ready to train, host, and lead at the highest levels of the global hospitality industry.
It is a chance for students to transform their lives, for businesses to access world-class talent, and for the Diaspora to invest in a project that fuses heritage with opportunity.
Find more about the Swiss-Armenian Academy of Hospitality by visiting www.saah-edu.com or via all social media platforms.
