Georgia: The Rector’s Council was held at Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University under the leadership of Giorgi Amilakhvari, the Georgian Minister of Education, Science and Youth.
The rectors and representatives of Georgian State and Private Universities participated in the Council of Rectors.
The participants discussed various important topics within the framework of the Council. Among them, the following issues were discussed:
Summary of the 2023-2024 academic year – Implemented reforms and results:
- Doubling the number of scholars and state scholarships;
- Covering the debts of students with suspended status;
- Events held to ensure access to students;
- 3-year bachelor’s program;
- Participation in international exhibitions;
- Support for international accreditation of programs;
- Second Excellence International School in Batumi;
- Competitive Innovations Fund (CIF);
- Higher education financing model;
- Various legislative changes, including distance learning.
- Current issues related to authorization and accreditation and monitoring results;
- Mechanisms for quality assurance of PhD educational programs.
The conversation also touched on actual issues raised by rectors and university representatives. Participants had the opportunity to get comprehensive information directly from the Minister on exciting topics.
The members of the Council noted that meetings in this format are of utmost importance both for the full implementation of reforms at the level of higher education and for strengthening the involvement of rectors in the processes. According to them, the Council of Rectors provides the best opportunity for coordinated work with the Ministry; therefore, it is necessary to continue active cooperation in this regard.
The First Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia, Alexander Tsuladze, Deputy Nodar Papukashvili, and Adjara Minister of Education, Culture and Sports, Maya Khajishvili, also participated in the Council of Rectors.
It is noted that meetings with the heads of universities are permanent on the Minister’s initiative to find effective solutions to existing problems in a timely manner.
The meetings will continue in the future and will be held at all authorized public and private universities throughout Georgia.
