Chairman of Parliament’s Procedural Issues Committee Davit Matikashvili stated this while speaking to journalists about the education reform, noting that the goals of merging the two universities are exclusively positive.

According to him, it is regrettable that Georgian students and young people seek to go abroad.

“Since Georgia’s independence, a truly important education reform is underway. Every major and large-scale reform initially encounters some resistance. This reform also demonstrates its importance and will inevitably lead to positive results. Out of hundreds of universities in Georgia, not a single one is represented in international rankings - this is an unfortunate reality. It is also unfortunate that Georgian students and young people want to go abroad - some have the means to do so, others do not. This is because the level of education in Georgia does not meet high standards. Our goal is to create high standards in both higher and secondary education. We will certainly achieve this. There will be even more active communication with professors, teachers, and all stakeholders interested in this issue, and the final decision will be unequivocally positive and beneficial for our society,” Matikashvili said.

He also addressed the merger of Georgian Technical University (GTU) and Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University (TSU), stating that “certain radical forces” are trying to stir up the situation around the issue for their own benefit.

“The objectives of merging the two universities are purely positive. If any other aspects raise concerns among professors, teachers, or other stakeholders, these issues will be resolved through discussion and communication. It should also be understood that certain radical forces are trying to muddy the waters and gain political advantage. Everything is being done - the deputy minister is meeting with university professors and teachers, and this communication is ongoing. The decision regarding the merger of universities will be perceived positively and will produce tangible results for society - first and foremost for young people and for ensuring high-standard education,” Davit Matikashvili stated.