Ilia State University alumni: Retaining only the pedagogical profile and reducing quotas is a political decision aimed at destroying the university - We demand the immediate suspension of its implementation
Graduates of Ilia State University have released a statement. According to it, they are calling for the suspension of the government’s decision regarding the university.
“We, alumni of Ilia State University from different generations, express our deep concern regarding the changes announced on February 12 within the framework of the education ‘reform,’ which, in fact, aim at the destruction of Ilia State University.
This decision directly contradicts Article 27, Paragraph 3 of the Constitution of Georgia, which guarantees the protection of university autonomy.
The identity and success of Ilia State University have been shaped by the tireless efforts of countless individuals. As a result, Ilia State University is a leading institution not only in Georgia but also in the region. This is confirmed by numerous international rankings. Beyond such achievements, IliaUni includes dozens of scientific research institutes and centers that, over the years, have not only accumulated knowledge and experience but have also contributed to public welfare.
Ilia University has educated generations of professionals whose success is not accidental — it is the result of the interdisciplinary environment that is now being targeted for elimination under the name of ‘reform.’ Our professional advancement is precisely the result of the programs that ‘Georgian Dream’ now considers ‘non-core’ and is prohibiting from admitting students.
We believe that: under the principle of ‘one city – one faculty,’ retaining only the pedagogical profile at Ilia State University and reducing the student admission quota to 300 places is a political decision aimed at destroying the university; this step contradicts cooperation with the Western educational space, the Bologna Process, and undermines the future of the country’s European integration; this anti-state action directed against IliaUni is a blow to the entire society.
We, the alumni of IliaUni, demand: the immediate suspension of the implementation of this decision; the involvement of the university community in the development of any reforms concerning higher education; and the protection of constitutionally guaranteed academic freedom and the autonomy of higher education institutions,” the statement reads.
Link to sign:
