In 2016, as the Fourth Industrial Revolution began to reshape economies, businesses and labour markets, technology was driving rapid change across all three. It was during this period that Business and Technology University was founded, with the aim of bringing business and technology together within a single educational model.

Over the following ten years, this idea became a central direction of BTU’s development. New academic programmes were introduced, high-tech laboratories were created, research and entrepreneurship centres were established, and the University developed a network of partnerships with leading universities and companies around the world.

BTU integrated technology not only into individual academic programmes, but across the University as a whole. Standards developed by international technology brands became part of the curriculum, international certification modules were introduced for students, and the World Economic Forum’s Strategic Intelligence platform was incorporated into teaching and research.

The next stage of BTU’s development was shaped by artificial intelligence. AI was integrated into teaching, research and university management, while BTU developed BTUAI, AI assistants, AI-focused academic programmes and digital resources based on Georgian knowledge. Its international AI4Globe initiative was recognised by UNESCO as an influential initiative of the International Decade of Sciences.

Practical experience also became an important part of the BTU model. Education extended beyond the classroom through laboratory work, cooperation with industry, career opportunities, international mobility and entrepreneurship programmes. The BTU Entrepreneurship Center became the first member organisation of the MIT Martin Trust Center for Entrepreneurship in the region, while the University’s international network grew to include leading educational institutions around the world.

BTU’s work has also extended beyond the University itself. Through programmes focused on women’s empowerment in technology, digital education for children and young people, entrepreneurship, sustainable development and AI literacy, thousands of people have gained access to new knowledge, skills and opportunities.

The University’s research activities have also expanded significantly over the decade. International research projects, scientific publications and the development of new technology platforms have been complemented by cooperation with CERN through the ATLAS Experiment, marking an important step in BTU’s integration into the global scientific community.

Ten years on, BTU is entering a new stage of development. Its vision remains rooted in the same idea that shaped the University from the beginning: modern education should stay ahead of technological change and give students not only knowledge, but also practical experience connected to industry and the skills they will need for the future.

BTU begins its next decade with the large-scale integration of artificial intelligence, stronger international scientific cooperation and the continued development of a new model for the university of the future.

(AD)