Photos scattered about in the mud
Photos of Yerevan professors were scattered in Yerevan streets today. The half-torn photos labeled "bribe-takers" could be seen everywhere. They were either thrown into the mud or fixed on higher educational establishments, building facades, etc.
The initiators of today's action, Miasin (Together) youth movement, aims to struggle against corruption in Yerevan's higher educational establishments. "We are determined to struggle till the end to eliminate this evil phenomenon," run the organisers' flyers.
The professors are mostly from Yerevan State University, Pedagogical University, and Linguistic University. Passers-by take a photo on their way to have a closer look.
Yerevan civilians think bribe-takers must be put on trial to uproot the phenomenon but they don't think the organisers have chosen the best way of struggle. 55-year-old economist Manvel Khachatryan thinks professors shouldn't be defamed unless there is evidence proving their crime. All accusations should be grounded as they defame our Intelligentsia representatives and cast a shadow on their rating. First of all, they must clarify the information, and then organise such actions.
As they say there is no smoke without fire. Yet, they should ground for their words," says Mr. Khachatryan and adds that his son also studies at YSU but they have never come across cases of bribetaking.
"This is a calumny. They shouldn't disgrace a human being in such a way. If they have any proofs they should submit them with the police," says lawyer Gevorg. Some students disapproved of the action and tore off the photos. The Ministry of Education and Science hasn't come up with a statement yet. Note that on February 21, 2009, Serzh Sargsyan was invited to the first anniversary of the Miasin youth movement.
