On February 23rd, 2024 a delegation of SEMAS Bourdj Hamoud students visited His Holiness Catholicos Aram I to seek his blessings for their first-place victory in the SEMAS Lebanon National Competition.

SEMAS, which stands for Soroban Education Mental Arithmetic System, was initially introduced to Lebanon by the Kendirjian family. Currently, Sevan Kendirjian-Sherbetjian directs and teaches this Japanese calculation method at SEMAS Bourdj Hamoud Center. Note that SEMAS operates in three other centers across Lebanon, namely Zalka, Zahle, and Ainjar.

In expressing filial gratitude for the warm reception, Ms. Kendirjian-Sherberjian provided a brief overview of the program’s objectives and highlighted their recent accomplishment of winning the first prize at the 5th SEMAS Lebanon National Competition.

After engaging in conversation with the students and experimenting with the SEMAS method for calculation, Catholicos Aram I commended the Kendirjian family for their proactive initiative in introducing this educational approach to our community. He acknowledged their efforts in enhancing the learning abilities of children and extended appreciation to the teachers for their dedication. Additionally, he praised the parents for guiding their children toward programs that foster cognitive development, emphasizing that education lays the foundation for a healthier society.