Georgian PM announces reversal of Tbilisi State-Technical University merger

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Monday announced that the government had reversed its decision to merge Tbilisi State University (TSU) and the Georgian Technical University (GTU), following consultations with GTU leadership and faculty.

Speaking at a government briefing, Kobakhidze said that the Technical University will remain an independent institution under the principle of “one city, one faculty,” and will not merge with TSU.

The PM met with GTU’s rector and professors prior to the announcement to discuss the decision.

The merger plan, initially announced on January 29, faced criticism from both universities’ academic communities. 

TSU’s Senate described the initiative as unsubstantiated and ill-advised, emphasizing the need for continued dialogue with all stakeholders.

GTU’s Academic Council similarly opposed any restrictions on the university’s autonomy, including through a potential merger with TSU, and urged the government to pause the process until a thorough review and institutional agreement could be reached.