First Deputy Chair of the Education, Science and Youth Affairs Committee, Giorgi Chakvetadze, participated in the graduation ceremony for the first cohort of students completing integrated vocational education programmes in public schools.

In his address, Giorgi Chakvetadze spoke about the significance of integrated vocational education programmes in public schools.

“Integrated vocational education programmes are a clear example of how education can respond to labour market demands by combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience and offering every young person diverse opportunities to realise their interests and potential”, - Giorgi Chakvetadze stated.

According to him, an important decision was made this year to promote vocational education. Under this initiative, applicants within the Unified National Examinations were, for the first time, given the opportunity to choose not only higher education programmes but also vocational education programmes.

Giorgi Chakvetadze expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister of Georgia and the Education, Science and Youth Minister for the achievements made under this initiative, as well as for the progress achieved through school and higher education reforms.

The First Deputy Chair of the Committee congratulated the graduates on successfully completing their studies and wished them every success in their future careers.

“From today, a new stage of your lives begins—one filled with new opportunities and responsibilities. I wish you every success in applying the knowledge and professional skills you have acquired, never ceasing to develop, confidently pursuing the path you have chosen, and making a worthy contribution to Georgia’s development and prosperity through your hard work and professionalism”, - Giorgi Chakvetadze said.

The event was opened with welcoming remarks by the Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia, Givi Mikanadze.

Participants were also addressed by the Deputy IDPs, Labour, Health and Social Affairs Minister, Giorgi Tsagareishvili.

Integrated vocational education programmes were introduced on a pilot basis in 20 public schools across Georgia in 2024. During the initial phase, more than 300 students enrolled in the programmes. Upon successful completion of their studies, graduates received both a certificate of complete general education and a diploma certifying vocational education.

To date, the programmes have been expanded to more than 80 public schools throughout Georgia.

During the event, certificates of appreciation were presented to the principals of participating public schools in recognition of their contribution to the implementation of integrated vocational education programmes.

The ceremony was also attended by members of the Education, Science and Youth Affairs Committee of the Parliament of Georgia: Rima Beradze, Eka Sepashvili, and Lika Shartava.