International week at the University of Ottawa

On January 30th, 2007, the Armenian Students’ Association (ASA) as an official club of the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa represented their country at the International Week at the University of Ottawa (U of O).

This annual event is organized by the International Office of the University of Ottawa and its partners to celebrate the cultural diversity of the university students. During this week International students set up display tables to showcase their country’s history and culture. Live cultural performances, ethnic food tasting and other events were also held daily at the University Centre.

The Armenian Embassy in Ottawa and the Armenian community of Ottawa supported the ASA in organizing this event. The Embassy representatives were also present during the event.

The Armenian display attracted numerous visitors, who showed interest in Armenia and its culture. The ASA members conducted “tours” on Armenian history, language, national traditions, arts and music. Many visitors were surprised by the combination of Armenian classical antiquity and the country’s prospective modernity. Passersby stopped to listen to Armenian music and even to join the Armenian youth in a national dance (Shourjpar).

To celebrate the upcoming St. Sarkis Day, the Armenian students prepared the traditional salted pies (aghi blit) and offered them to the young people who were interested in taking part in this ancient Armenian tradition.

During the closing ceremony of the International Week 2007 at the Agora, U of O, participants and guests of the event joined the ASA members in an Armenian Shourjpar.

This was the second time that ASA participated in this annual event. Last year, the event was arranged as a competition for the best table and display, and the ASA won the 2nd place in a middle size table category.