YEREVAN (Noyan Tapan)–On September 15–eighteen newspapers published in Yerevan received licensed computer software for Adobe PhotoShop graphics and QuarkXpress lay-out design as well as high-capacity Zip disc-carriers and discs as well as a wide set of licensed Armenian types. All of the software was received as a grant from the Kafesjian Family Foundation. The editorial offices of the newspapers are not entitled to sell these utilities or provide them to anybody else. Twice a year–each of the newspapers must present an account on the use of the granted software.
This donation is part of the USAID-financed Assistance to the Press Program of the Eurasia Foundation. All local periodicals registered with the Ministry of Justice of Armenia and possessing appropriate computer logistics are eligible to participate in the program. Last year–upon the initiative of the Eurasia Foundation–computer operators of these newspapers participated in monthly training seminars.
Hailing the initiative of the Kafesjian Family Foundation–Director of the Eurasia Foundation Yerevan Office Artashes Ghoukassian said that "this step may become a turning-point for Armenian newspapers on the way from copyright violations to a legally regulated software market."
Assistance to the Press Program Director Ashot Hambartsumian emphasized that modern technological packages will improve the quality of newspaper design–bringing it in line with existing international standards. Besides–the new utilities will make sure these printed media stay competitive on the local news market.