Based on consultations with the Prime Minister, children who turn 6 years old by December 31 will be eligible to register for the first grade in the 2026-2027 academic year. Such a statement the Minister of Education, Science and Youth Affairs made at today`s briefing.

"It is fundamentally important for us to listen to and consider the opinion of the public and our citizens. As you know, the national concept of the reform was presented and announced in December 2025; therefore, we have tried to make the transition period as simple as possible for the school community.

Most parents have already been in negotiations with specific schools and are preparing their children for the first grade. Consequently, we have prioritized the best interests of the parents.

The public is aware that we have launched a reform of the general education system, within which we are working in various directions to increase the quality of education in schools and improve the school environment.

Among these, one initiative concerns the school age. Specifically, within the framework of the reform, registering a child in the first grade will only be possible if they turn 6 years old by September 15. This initiative of ours is based on international practice, which considers a child`s socio-emotional readiness for engagement in the school process and the development of minimum competencies and necessary skills. Recently, this decision has become a subject of public discussion. We have had active debates on this matter – I met with representatives of the school community, including parents, in various regions, from whom I received information regarding numerous current challenges beyond the school age.

Additionally, we systematically monitored information spread on social networks, as well as multiple appeals and statements.

I would like to emphasize once again that it is important for us to promote the growth of education quality and ensure that processes are tailored to the needs of society as much as possible. We have said many times that it is always interesting to hear different positions, including critical ones, if they are backed by arguments and justification.

We have set the primary goal of the reform as creating a learning environment in schools focused on the student and their development. Accordingly, we will continue to cooperate with the school community, experts, parents, and other target groups to ensure that all decisions are directed towards protecting the best interests of our society and are based on professional analysis", - said Givi Mikanadze.