The Prime Minister of Georgia marked the commencement of the entry of 1st students at the recently launched Kutaisi International University [KIU] by calling it a “beginning of a very long journey toward greater progress and success” for the country.

“This is the historic day for both the University and the country as a whole… The KIU 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 KIU is a significant continuation of these traditions.

I would like to thank Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder of the KIU, for his idea to create this important educational hub in this city.

This infrastructure, selected by Bidzina Ivanishvili and his family, is of the highest European standard. Even during my 3 years of study in Europe, I have not seen such infrastructure in the specific university where I received my education. KIU’s educational buildings and dormitories provide an extraordinary environment for every student.

We are planning to present a 4-year development plan for our country, which will include education reform, with a special emphasis on university reform. KIU will have a special place in this plan. Our goal is to have two educational centres in the country, Tbilisi State University and Kutaisi International University, providing an equal load in terms of education provision.

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

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”, - said Irakli Kobakhidze.