The Parliament of Georgia, under an accelerated procedure, reviewed and approved in the first reading amendments to the Law on Higher Education.
The issue was presented by Zviad Gabisonia, Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Youth.
“Within the autumn session, we presented the first legislative package of the reform as part of the higher education concept. The new legislative package includes certain changes and clarifications,” the rapporteur noted.
According to him, the position of leading professor will be added to the list of academic staff. The rights of individuals holding this position to membership in academic councils and participation in the dean election process will also be regulated.
In addition, the legal framework for the reorganization of state-founded higher education institutions is being clarified.
At the same time, higher education institutions will be granted the opportunity, in a transitional regime and for a specified period, to implement programs that will not be предусмотрены by government decrees. Accordingly, students already enrolled in these programs will be able to continue their studies at the same higher education institution for the designated period.
“As a result of the reform, students receive free education, expanded infrastructure, dual resources, and international recognition. Universities gain a strengthened research base, interdisciplinary cooperation, and improved conditions for professors. As for our country, it gains competitive professionals — the intellectual resource that strengthens the country and strong universities,” said Mariam Lashkhi, Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Education, Science and Youth Affairs.
