Mikheil Chkhenkeli: "We are pleased to have the unique opportunity to contribute to this extremely important project"

As part of a new soldier-oriented social policy, the Department of Defense is launching another new project to promote education for the military personnel and their families. Owing to the decision of Irakli Gharibashvili, the Ministry of Education will provide 50% co-financing of tuition fees for servicemen enrolled in higher education institutions, as well as their families, which includes covering the minimum tuition fee set by the state - half of 2250 GEL. Additionally, they will be awarded with a Ministerial Scholarship of GEL 750 per semester for high academic achievement.

The new project was presented to the public today by the Minister of Defense of Georgia. Irakli Gharibashvili spoke about the importance of the project and the social policy of the Ministry of Defense, which is focused on fostering the state of Georgian soldiers and their families. The Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Georgia, Mikheil Chkhenkeli addressed the invited guests.

Mikheil Chkhenkeli: "The military is key to ensuring the development of our country, the security and well-being of our citizens. One of the challenges that Georgia faces today, is organising a well-developed, modern army, with a military personnel, who along with their outstanding military training, are also distinguished by a high level of civilian consciousness, aware of the tasks of a peaceful development of the state and the world. Moreover, this implies a state support for the families of military servicemen, raising public awareness, especially our youth, about the role and the importance of the armed forces.

We therefore welcome the initiative of the Minister of Defense to launch a new soldier-oriented social program. Naturally, the education system has a special role to play in this process. We are pleased to have the opportunity to contribute to this important project”.

The Memorandum of Understanding includes conducting excursions, cognitive-educational projects, giving public lectures and organising scientific-research based activities on military topics. Additionally, within the scope of the project – “Our Army”, military servicemen will hold presentations for students on the military history of Georgia, Georgian National heroes, military service, Georgia’s participation in international missions and other relevant topics.

The new initiative aims to strengthen the country's defense capabilities by engaging young people in military affairs, developing military-related science and raising public awareness about the Georgian military.

The event was attended by the heads of the higher education institutions involved in the project, who confirmed their readiness to participate in the project by signing a memorandum of understanding.