Long-term vision for the development of the education system has been developed

The Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia has developed a long-term vision for the development of the educational system. With the support of the World Bank, a comprehensive study of the existing system was carried out, and recommendations were developed, which were used to define strategic directions for the further development of the sector. The analytical document covers all levels of education and science – preschool, general, and higher education, as well as the development of science. Furthermore, core principles such as quality and accessible education, as well as the principle of lifelong learning, have been taken into account. All of this complies with both the requirements of the Bologna Process and the recommendations of the European Parliament and the Council of Europe.

The main strategic directions were presented today by Tamar Sanikidze, Minister of Education and Science of Georgia, to representatives of general, vocational, and higher education, as well as representatives of international organizations and the legislative body at a conference. The conference was opened by Irakli Garibashvili, Prime Minister of Georgia. Non-governmental organizations working in the field of education and engaged in research activities participated in the development of the document.

The document, created as a result of extensive research, is aligned with the experience of advanced countries around the world. It outlines the challenges existing in the field of education and the key changes to be implemented. It serves as a unifying document of core directions, the transformation of which into an action plan will be continuously worked on by thematic groups. The Government of Georgia will take this into account when planning the budget for coming years.

“The document on the main directions of the development of the education and science system is based on the priorities provided for by the ‘Socio-Economic Development Strategy of Georgia 2020’ – employment, job creation, and the promotion of the formation of an innovation-based economy,” stated Tamar Sanikidze, Minister of Education and Science. “In this regard, the training of qualified personnel and the strengthening of the research potential in the education system are of utmost importance, in which the Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia will take an active part.”

“Over the past decade, the reforms implemented in the field of education in Georgia have been unique for the region; these reforms have ensured the improvement of the transparency and efficiency of the given sector. Nevertheless, a study recently conducted by the World Bank has shown that improving quality remains the primary challenge at all levels of education in Georgia. Specifically, it will be important to improve the learning outcomes of Georgian students in core areas such as literacy, mathematics, and natural sciences,” stated Henry Kerali, World Bank Regional Director for the South Caucasus. “Georgia’s competitiveness in the global economy will largely depend on its ability to train highly qualified human resources, which will only be possible by ensuring quality education. Progress in this field requires long-term and stable efforts, as evidenced by the experience of countries that currently possess successful educational systems. Georgia has the opportunity to share the experience of countries that have demonstrated impressive progress.”

Following the presentation, public discussions on specific topics will be held. Afterwards, the document will be approved by the Government of Georgia in the form of an action plan.