Orphans climb Aragats Mount
Over 20 children from Armenian orphanages ascended to the top of Mount Aragats at the weekend. They dedicated their ascent to the 20th anniversary of Armenia's independence.
"We believe that Armenians will be able to reach greater heights," said climber Onik Gevorgyan.
The ascent was initiated by the World Vision Armenia charity organization.
Talking to A1+ Artak Saghatelyan, a senior official of the World Vision Armenia, said ‘children in orphanages should be brought out of the closed environment.'
"Our objective is to familiarize these children with the outside world, its nature, health and environmental problems. We wanted to instill in them the culture of teamwork and I think we succeeded in our endeavors," the specialist said adding that the children walked arm in arm, helping each other.
Before the ascent, the children were subject to medical examination. Those with health problems were kept aloof from the undertaking.
However, Ani Harutyunyan refused to give up the idea of mounting and reached the peak of Aragats with the help of a doctor.
"I was eager to climb the mountain and I was confident of my abilities. Now I feel stronger and livelier," said the 14-year-old girl.
"After ascending Aragats I realized that I want to become a mountaineer. I consulted our organizers who advised me to apply to Mr. Vahe, a member of "Spitak" rescue team," she said.
Vahe accompanied the children in their undertaking, collecting garbage left by tourists and setting a good example for future climbers.
