More than 70% of participants in the iGorts program have ultimately repatriated to Armenia, organizers told Armenpress.

iGorts invites Diaspora Armenian professionals to work in Armenia’s public sector and government. The program is run by the Office of the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs.

Since its launch in 2020, more than 300 Diaspora Armenians have participated, said iGorts project leader Anna Mheryan.

The program offers Diaspora professionals a unique opportunity to engage in Armenia’s public administration system and contribute their expertise.

“The 7th round of the program will launch in September this year. From January 26 to March 13, we received around 200 applications from 30 countries. Participants who pass the first stage will be invited to interviews, after which selected candidates will begin work in Armenia’s public sector starting September 1,” Mheryan said on the Armenpress Podcast.

Participants are selected based on the needs identified by government agencies, with 35 candidates to be chosen this year. Applicants must also have higher education and at least five years of professional experience.

Selected specialists work in the public sector for one year, applying their expertise to help improve key sectors and contribute to policy and program development.

Mheryan highlighted the program’s high repatriation rate as one of its main achievements.

“Since 2020, around 300 participants have taken part in the program, 73% of whom have repatriated. Some have returned with their families and continued working in state institutions after passing civil service exams. Others have launched businesses and now cooperate with the Office of the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs and other institutions,” she said.

She added that many participants have relocated with their families and are now building their lives in Armenia, while others have even formed new families and settled in the country through the program.

Mheryan noted strong interest in the initiative, pointing out that participants often take part in multiple programs run by the office, including “Step Toward Home,” “Diaspora Youth Ambassador,” and “iGorts.”

“The main goal of the High Commissioner’s Office is repatriation, and all our programs are designed with that objective in mind. While participants are in Armenia, we introduce them to the country, its landmarks, and opportunities in higher education and the job market, encouraging engagement across different age groups,” she said.

According to Mheryan, participants are primarily motivated by patriotism, as well as a desire to understand Armenia’s public system from within and contribute to its development.

Participants in the iGorts program receive health insurance, round-trip airfare, and a monthly stipend of 336,000 AMD to cover living expenses throughout the fellowship.