The Rectors' Council discussed important legislative changes
For years, the status of scientists and their rights and obligations remained undefined, and they were excluded from university governance and the educational process. Furthermore, researchers had limited opportunities to participate in training the next generation of scientists. The implementation of these legislative amendments will resolve the aforementioned issues. Specifically, the following measures will be undertaken: defining the legal status of research units; regulating the structure and functioning mechanisms of research institutions at the legislative level; restoring the status of scientists within universities; re-establishing the connection between teaching and research; strengthening the research component in the educational process; and launching an evaluation system for research units. Additionally, by introducing the concept of joint academic degrees and refining the definition of a university, the legislative amendments will facilitate the harmonization of Georgia's higher education system with the European Higher Education Area.
An important component of the legislative amendments is the reform of the teacher education system, which will ensure the preparation of new, modern-knowledge-equipped teachers for general education schools.
The Minister of Education and Science of Georgia, Tamar Sanikidze, discussed the action plan for the implementation of the law-mandated changes with members of the Rectors' Council operating under the Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia. The implementation of the action plan will be carried out with the active involvement of universities and their constituent research units. During the meeting, responsible structures, individuals, and respective deadlines for various activities were determined.
Given that the enforcement of the legislative amendments requires the active participation of universities and research units as well as the implementation of a series of changes, the Rectors' Council also discussed holding several large-scale conferences. These events will address conceptual and practical issues related to specific activities and establish common approaches acceptable to all parties.
