The Rector of Georgian Technical University, Davit Gurgenidze, addressed the students and professors gathered at the university who are protesting the decision to merge GTU with Tbilisi State University (TSU), stating that he does not intend to step down from his position.

According to Gurgenidze, he plans to convene the Academic Council and hold an open discussion.

“I will not allow this to be dragged into politics. No one has the right to count people here. Professors are not counted by heads. I do not intend to resign anywhere. As long as I have this authority from the state, I am your elected rector and have legitimacy. I am with you, whatever decision is made. That is why the opinion of every student and lecturer matters to me, and that is why we should discuss this.

By agreement with you, I will convene the Academic Council on Monday or Tuesday. There will be an open meeting and a discussion. I will inform the Minister of Education—he is not currently in Georgia, but I am in contact with him,” the rector said.

It should be recalled that a protest rally was held at Georgian Technical University. GTU professors and students are protesting the government’s decision to merge the Technical University with Tbilisi State University.

They brought protest banners reading: “We will not give up GTU,” “GTU’s history will not be erased,” and “Do not kill technical education.”