Giorgi Chakvetadze, First Deputy Chair of the Education, Science and Youth Affairs Committee, participated in the opening ceremony of the VET Connect 2.0: International Week of Vocational Partnerships.

In his address, MP reviewed the reforms undertaken in vocational education. According to him, in 2018, the Georgian Parliament adopted a new Law on Vocational Education, aiming at the development of the sphere, determination of the state policy and facilitation of its practical realization.

"Vocational education is set as one of the priorities of the Government, which is evidenced by the consistent reforms undertaken on the basis of this grade of education. It encompasses the development of the regulatory and policy documents, as well as the increasing financial support, infrastructural upgrades and improved accessibility through the geographic extension and inculcation of the inclusive approaches", - he elucidated.

According to the reporter, amidst the background of two-digit economic growth, vocational education presents a substantial opportunity for the sustainable economic development of the nation and the social well-being of its citizens: "Following the reforms, we observe a heightened demand for vocational education, which has garnered significant popularity. Over the past four years, the number of students enrolling in universities has experienced an impressive 80% increase. Notably, this trend is closely followed by the growing interest and engagement of the private sector in this field".

The International Week of Vocational Partnership, hosted by Georgia for the second consecutive occasion, will span a duration of four days. This event is supported by the Ministry of Education, Science, and Youth Affairs and is organised by the Skills Agency. The event will be attended by all relevant parties. Up to 80 vocational schools from 17 countries and the representatives of the private and public sectors from Europe and Asia are attending the event.

The program agenda includes the international conference, thematic presentations, workshops, panel discussions and thematic exhibitions. The First Deputy Chair of the Foreign Relations Committee, Mariam Lashkhi also attended the ceremony.