The Georgian government is reversing its decision to merge Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University (TSU) and Georgian Technical University (GTU).
Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced the decision at a briefing held at the Government Administration. Prior to the briefing, Kobakhidze met with the rector and professors of Georgian Technical University.
The government’s initial decision to merge TSU and GTU became public on January 29 and immediately sparked criticism from representatives of the academic and scientific communities of both universities.
The Tbilisi State University Senate issued a statement saying that the proposed merger with Georgian Technical University was neither substantiated nor appropriate. According to the Senate, the merger process in its proposed form should be halted, and meaningful communication with all stakeholders should continue.
In parallel, the GTU Academic Council released its own statement, emphasizing that it opposes any form of restriction of university autonomy, including a potential merger with TSU. The council called on the government to suspend the process until thorough discussions are held and the university’s consent is obtained.
The government’s decision to reverse course follows these reactions from the academic sector and comes after consultations with representatives of Georgian Technical University.
