On June 1, 2026, a solemn event dedicated to the commemoration of the independence of the First Republic of Armenia took place at the Armenian Catholic Mesrobian High School. The program was filled with a patriotic spirit, during which the students and the teaching staff renewed their vow to remain faithful to the sacred commandment of May 28.

The ceremony was opened by student Giana Ouloujian, who revived the fateful situation of 1918 in her speech. She described how the Armenian people, barely surviving the Genocide and abandoned by their allies, were able to create the miracle of resurrection in Sartarabad, Pash Abaran and Gharakilissa. Giana emphasized that it is the duty of today's students to uphold the will of the heroes, keep the native language pure and approach education with the utmost responsibility.

Within an artistic program, students of the first, second and third grades performed the song “Let It Be”, Vannes Der Bedrossian recited the “Armenian Soul” verse in a moving way, the youngsters of the fourth and fifth grades performed the song “Armenian Braves”, Vana Malatian emotionally recited Vahan Tekeyan’s profound work “Do not confuse us with your wild, bear tribes”, and the event reached its peak with the song “Sartarabad”, accompanied with  rhythmic movements of the students depicting the victorious spirit of the Armenians with tricolor handkerchiefs.

At the end of the program, the school’s Principal, Mr. Gregoire Kaloust, delivered his message. He highly appreciated the students’ performances and especially emphasized that May 28 is not just a territorial achievement, but the “unyielding will” and “sacred spirit” that has been inherited by us for millennia. The Principal noted that the historical ups and downs, the current difficulties, and the loss of Artsakh are temporary, and the Armenian spirit will continue to create new victories. He also reflected upon the symbol of Mount Ararat, noting that it remains imprinted in the heart of every Armenian, regardless of political pressures. Mr. Kaloust invited the school’s athletes and coaches to the stage, considering their victories in LEVAM as a continuation of the May victorious spirit (we will address the results of LEVAM separately).

Glory to those who created the May victories and to those who keep the Armenian spirit of freedom alive today.