This chapter provides a thematic and chronological overview of national reforms and policy developments since 2021. The introduction of the chapter describes the overall education strategy and the key objectives across the whole education system of Georgia. It also looks at how the education reform process is organised and who are the main actors in the decision-making process. The section on ongoing reforms and policy developments groups reforms in the following broad thematic areas that largely correspond to education levels:
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Early childhood education and care
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School Education
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VET and Adult learning
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Higher education
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Transversal skills and Employability
Inside each thematic area, reforms are organised chronologically. The most recent reforms are described first.
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1. Overall National Education Strategy and Key Objectives
The Government of Georgia, under the leadership of the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth, took responsibility for the development of a long-term strategic plan for the development of the education and science system, and by the resolution N304 of the Government of Georgia of June 28, 2021, the Interagency Council for the Development of the 2022-2030 Education and Science Strategy and Action Plan of Georgia was established.
The new Unified Strategy is centred on 3 strategic directions to enhance the quality and relevance of education, ensure equity, inclusion and diversity in education and improve Governance, Financing and Accountability modalities in the system, spanning from preschool education through science and technology and innovation. The new Strategy, underpinned by the principle of Leaving No One Behind, is in line with the international obligations and commitments and the UN Strategic Development Goals. In response to modern international trends, it emphasizes digital transformation, gender equality, democracy, green transition, etc. In September 2022, Georgia submitted its National Statement of Commitment[1] to transform education to the United Nations at the UN Transforming Education Summit in September 2022.
The national education strategy of Georgia aims to create an inclusive, high-quality, and innovative education system that meets the demands of the 21st-century knowledge economy. The strategy prioritizes accessibility, equity, and quality across all levels of education, ensuring that all learners, regardless of socio-economic background, receive a comprehensive education. Moreover, the strategy aims to support the holistic and sustainable development of the system, ensuring universal and lifelong learning opportunities. In addition, to develop and institutionally strengthen the education and science system, institutional development policy documents will be prepared based on relevant research and analysis. A gender audit (PGA) will be conducted to identify issues for improvement in a number of areas of gender equality in the education and science system and to assess progress.
Key objectives include:
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Expanding access to early childhood education and improving its quality.
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Strengthening school education with modernized curricula, teacher professional development, and enhanced learning environments.
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Advancing vocational education and training (VET) to align with labor market needs.
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Enhancing higher education institutions to support research, innovation, and internationalization.
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Promoting lifelong learning and employability through upskilling and digital literacy programs.
The Government of Georgia has developed several key policy documents to guide these efforts, including the Education and Science Strategy 2022-2030, which sets long-term goals and action plans. The strategy aligns with international standards and best practices, ensuring sustainable and impactful educational reforms.
The reforms carried out in the implementation of the 2017-2021 Education and Science Strategy were aimed at increasing access to early childhood and preschool education, improving the quality of general education, and improving the accessibility and quality of vocational education. Important steps were taken to increase the attractiveness of the teaching profession and strengthen the quality of higher education, research, technology, innovation, and internationalization.[2]
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2. Overview of the Education Reform Process and Drivers
The education reform process in Georgia is guided by a structured decision-making framework involving multiple stakeholders. MoESY serves as the principal governing body, responsible for formulating and implementing national education policies.
Key actors in the education reform process include:
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Ministry of Education, Science and Youth (MoESY): The leading institution for policy development and implementation.
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Parliament of Georgia: Approves legislative changes and allocates budgetary resources.
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National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement (NCEQE): Ensures accreditation and quality assurance across education levels.
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International Organizations (EU, World Bank, UNICEF, etc.): Provide technical and financial support for educational development projects.
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Private Sector and Civil Society: Engage in consultations and partnerships to align education with labor market demands.
The reform process follows a multi-stage approach, including policy formulation, pilot implementation, stakeholder consultations, and nationwide rollouts. Evidence-based decision-making and international cooperation remain central to ensuring that reforms achieve their intended impact and sustainability.
Through this structured approach, Georgia continues to modernize its education system, enhancing learning outcomes and fostering human capital development to support national economic growth and social well-being.