The Georgian National University, SEU, in collaboration with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), is taking the initiative to support entrepreneurial education through the MIT Entrepreneurial Center’s Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship and its ‘Raise the Bar Entrepreneurship Educators Network.’
MIT, founded in 1861, is the world’s leading technology university, consistently ranking first in the QS World University Rankings. It is also recognized for initiating a number of innovative startups, significantly contributing to the development of entrepreneurial talent. The establishment of the Martin Trust Center ensures mentorship for budding entrepreneurs.
In an interview with Gia Kavtelishvili, the rector of SEU, the objective behind the entrepreneurial education network was discussed.
“In general, Georgia lacks consistent educational methods for entrepreneurship, whereas today’s accelerated world demands such professionals,” he notes. “The Network aims to cultivate a generation of entrepreneurs equipped with the skills needed to navigate critical challenges.”
Universities within this network share a common goal: integrating MIT’s experiences, particularly in startup generation, in the international arena. Being part of this prestigious circle allows SEU to collaborate with leading educational institutions worldwide, fostering an environment of information exchange.
To enhance the development of academic personnel, SEU sends at least five academics to MIT to participate in entrepreneurship programs. This initiative helps them familiarize themselves with MIT accelerator programs and new content provided by MIT faculty. Equipped with fresh knowledge, these professors can effectively transfer their insights to SEU students.
SEU needs to facilitate relationships that allow students to engage in fully funded exchange programs at MIT. They can participate in the three-week immersive program, ‘StartMIT,’ which provides practical skills in entrepreneurship, and attend seminars led by Bill Aulet, director of the Martin Trust Center and a best-selling author.
“This partnership grants SEU students a unique opportunity to learn about the latest trends in entrepreneurship, participate in international projects, and establish global connections,” Kavtelishvili says. “Such experiences will benefit their startup initiatives and impact the overall startup ecosystem in Georgia. Notably, SEU administration staff also travels to MIT for its annual conference.”
In collaboration with other partner universities within the network, SEU is set to introduce an international startup accelerator on its campus, which will be integrated into both bachelor’s and master’s programs. As one of the founders of the Raise the Bar Entrepreneurship Educators Network, SEU will obtain access to the MIT Orbit platform, a digital space designed to help startup ideas develop by identifying crucial risks and maximizing outcomes. This platform includes a GenAI assistant to support the advancement of entrepreneurial education.
by Mariam Razmadze
