Nobel Laureate: Armenia's AI Data Centers Alone May Not Be Enough

Daron Acemoglu urged the country to decide now what role it wants to play in the global AI ecosystem

Armenia needs to define its own role in the global artificial intelligence ecosystem, and the development of computing infrastructure should be only part of a larger national strategy. This was stated by Nobel laureate in economics, MIT Professor Daron Acemoglu, at a FAST and Armenian Biotech Group discussion in Cambridge.

According to him, the current high demand for computing power does not guarantee that this situation will persist in ten years. Therefore, it is important for Armenia to determine its priorities in advance: whether to provide computing resources or to develop its own AI models, applications, and technological products. This requires not only capacity but also human capital, organizations, and a systematic approach.

Image source: arkatelecom

Acemoglu separately touched upon the impact of AI on education. He considers it important to preserve fundamental training, including mathematics and natural sciences. Even with further AI development, people may need knowledge and practical skills to collaborate with artificial intelligence systems and understand the principles of their decisions.

Armenia is already developing relevant educational initiatives. According to FAST Executive Director Syuzanna Shamakhian, about 1,500 schoolchildren are participating in the Generation AI program, implemented jointly with the country's government. In addition, the Armenian team took fifth place in the team standings of the International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad 2026.