Georgian PM: ‘strong state can’t exist without educated society’

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Monday said a strong state could not exist without an educated society, emphasising the crucial role teachers play in shaping the country’s future.

Speaking at the Teacher’s National Prize award ceremony in Tbilisi, Kobakhidze said teaching was not merely a profession, but a calling and an honourable service to the homeland.

“It is symbolic that on this day, we celebrate the birthday of our greatest educator and founder of scientific pedagogy in Georgia, Iakob Gogebashvili. Without an educated society, a strong state cannot exist. It is our dear teachers who serve this noble goal, and I want to extend my deep gratitude for your dedicated work”, Kobakhidze said in his address.

He highlighted that teachers were entrusted with the country’s most valuable treasure - future generations - and were responsible for sharing knowledge, instilling national values and raising civically responsible and patriotic citizens.

Kobakhidze noted the Government’s key priority was to ensure that the teaching profession is fully valued, respected and properly supported.

“With the recently announced large-scale reform of the education system and several other initiatives already underway, the Teacher’s National Prize represents the state’s modest recognition of your immense contribution. This year, thanks to the Ministry [of Education’s] initiative, the acknowledgment has become even more extensive - in addition to the ten laureates, distinguished teachers were recognised in every municipality across Georgia”, he stated.

Prize winners will also receive a special badge featuring the symbol of the Gelati Academy, representing the continuation of Georgia’s longstanding educational traditions and the guarantee of a better future.

The Prime Minister concluded by congratulating educators on the occasion and wishing them “health, professional advancement, and new achievements”.