Georgian PM: Kutaisi Int’l University’s first graduates mark “beginning of long journey toward greater progress, success for country”

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Friday marked the commencement of the entry of first students at the recently launched Kutaisi International University in the western Imereti region by calling it a “beginning of a very long journey toward greater progress and success” for the country.

During his address at the graduation ceremony, Kobakhidze emphasised the importance of the “historic day” for both the University and the “country as a whole”.

The University has already established a strong reputation over the past four years, allowing us to speak about it in very positive terms. It is important to note Kutaisi and the Imereti region have special academic traditions that our country takes pride in. The city's academic traditions have deep roots and a long history, and the establishment of the University is a significant continuation of these traditions”, he said.

• Making history: Kutaisi International University, a €1 billion project, will receive students in 2020

The Prime Minister praised the University’s development and expansion over the past four years, noting the creation of “unique” infrastructure and the “gradual expansion” of training programmes.

He also thanked Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder and Honorary Chair of the ruling Georgian Dream party and the founder of the University, for his idea to create "this important educational hub" in the city.

This infrastructure, selected by Ivanishvili and his family, is of the highest European standard. Even during my three years of study in Europe, I have not seen such infrastructure in the specific university where I received my education. Kutaisi University's educational buildings and dormitories provide an extraordinary environment for every student”, Kobakhidze said.

The Prime Minister also announced “ambitious plans” to further expand the University.

We are planning to present a four-year development plan for our country, which will include education reform, with a special emphasis on university reform. Kutaisi University will have a special place in this plan. Our goal is to have two educational centres in the country, Tbilisi State University [in the capital] and Kutaisi International University, providing an equal load in terms of education provision”, Kobakhidze said.

Kobakhidze also announced a new, 27,000-square-metre building would be completed by the end of this year to further enhance resources of the latter University.

He added the University would aim to accommodate up to 30,000 students by 2028. “This plan will be fully financed by Ivanishvili, and for that, I would like to express my gratitude”, he said.