Saakashvili accuses Ivanishvili of targeting universities, claims move aimed at ‘eliminating educated people’

Former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili has accused ruling Georgian Dream founder Bidzina Ivanishvili of seeking to undermine higher education institutions in Georgia, claiming the process has already begun with Ilia State University.

In a post on social media, Saakashvili wrote that Ilia State University, which he said was established during his presidency with his active involvement, is being “shut down”.

“They have come for Ilia State University, and next will immediately follow the University of Georgia and the Free University. After that, Caucasus University and others,” Saakashvili stated.

He alleged that Ivanishvili has made a firm decision to lower the country’s level of education, claiming the aim is the “elimination of educated people” in Georgia.

Saakashvili also criticised what he described as political celebrations linked to the anniversary of the rise to power of Iran’s ayatollahs.