Yerevan, March 12 – Officials from the “Yerevan State Technological College” SNCO have been charged with bribery following an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Committee of Armenia. The criminal proceedings, initiated as a result of operational-investigative measures, confirmed that college officials, acting as a group, accepted bribes for illegal actions and inaction in favor of citizens, using their official powers and influence.
Details of the Bribery Scheme
The preliminary investigation revealed that a citizen, after learning from the college’s Deputy Director for Academic Affairs that his son had failed a state exam, agreed to pay a bribe. According to the prior agreement, the citizen gave 500 USD to the college director and the deputy director for academic affairs to ensure a positive grade for his son in the exam process.
Additional Corruption Case Uncovered
Furthermore, during the preliminary investigation, another instance of illegal activity by the same citizen for his son’s benefit was uncovered. Specifically, in 2025, to obtain a driver’s license, the citizen approached a resident of Yerevan who assured him that he could arrange the process by bribing an authorized official with 400,000 AMD. The citizen agreed to this arrangement.
Unsuccessful Bribery Attempt
However, the individual who received the money under the pretext of mediating the bribe used the funds for personal needs. The citizen, due to circumstances beyond his control, was unable to complete the crime of giving a bribe.
Charges Filed and Legal Proceedings
The director and deputy director for academic affairs of the “Yerevan State Technological College” SNCO have been charged with receiving a bribe as part of a group, under Article 435, Part 2, Clauses 1 and 3 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Armenia. The citizen who offered the bribe has been charged under Article 436, Part 2, Clause 3, and Article 44-436, Part 2, Clause 3 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Armenia.
The preliminary investigation in the criminal proceedings has concluded. The case materials, along with the indictment, have been sent to the supervising prosecutor for approval and submission to the court.
Recent Similar Cases
This case follows other recent corruption investigations in Armenia:
- On March 9, 2026, the rector and pro-rector of the Armenian State Pedagogical University were accused of receiving particularly large bribes. Criminal proceedings against 10 individuals were sent to court.
- On March 2, 2026, an official from the Ministry of Defense received illegal remuneration for organizing the process of releasing several individuals from training camps.
- On February 24, 2026, the director of Yerevan Kindergarten No. 143 was arrested on charges of bribery and embezzlement, days after her reappointment.
These cases highlight ongoing efforts by Armenian authorities to combat corruption in various sectors.
