The Institute of Oriental Studies of the National Academy of Sciences of Armenia has announced the passing of Professor Nicolay Hovhannisyan on their Facebook page. Professor Hovhannisyan, a prominent scientist and public figure, was a member of the NAS RA and the founder of the Armenian Arabological School. He served as the director of the Institute of Oriental Studies from 1995 to 2006. Born on June 10, 1930, in Leninakan (now Gyumri), he graduated from the Faculty of International Relations of Yerevan State University in 1953 and completed his postgraduate studies in 1956. He received a doctoral degree in historical sciences in 1968 and was awarded the title of professor in 1971. In 2006, he was elected a corresponding member of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia. Throughout his career, Professor Hovhannisyan was a leading researcher in Armenian studies.

Professor Hovhannisyan played a crucial role in the establishment and development of Armenian Arabology. As one of the founders of the Institute of Oriental Studies, he contributed significantly to Armenia’s position in the field of Arabology. For over four decades, from 1962 to 2003, he served as the head of the Arab division of the Armenian Academy of Sciences. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife, family, friends, and the academic community. The funeral will be held on April 25 at 18:00 at Zoravor Surb Astvatsatsin Church on 25/3 G. Hasratyan Street, near Shahumyan Square. The memorial ceremony will take place on April 26 at 14:00 at the same address.

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