Merger of Technical University and Tbilisi State University expected to take at least six months, ministry says

The planned merger between Georgia’s Technical University and Tbilisi State University (TSU) is expected to take a minimum of six months, but the timeline may be extended for understandable reasons, the Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Youth, Zviad Gabisonia, said on Tuesday. 

Speaking to the media, Gabisonia noted that technical challenges and program overlaps may complicate the process. He added that discussions with Technical University leadership revealed issues that may not be immediately visible from the ministry’s perspective.

“The Technical University leadership highlighted technical challenges that require careful consideration. We are taking all of this into account. The minister is currently on an important mission in Israel, where an unprecedented decision was made to open a Center for Georgian Studies at the University of Jerusalem. We expect the minister to return by Friday, after which immediate meetings will be held,” Gabisonia said.

He stressed that the Technical University’s brand must be preserved. “We fully respect their position. The Technical University of Georgia celebrates its 104th anniversary this year. At the same time, we will also meet with TSU leadership, whose input is equally important. Once the minister returns, final decisions are expected to be made next week,” he said.

Gabisonia framed the merger within the broader context of a fundamental higher education reform announced by the prime minister in October. The reform, he claimed, aims to address seven key challenges outlined in the reform concept and includes considerations of personnel, infrastructure, and institutional development.

“The merger will strengthen the Technical University’s strong technical and technological programs, bringing together its historical experience and professional staff with TSU to create a flagship university. Ultimately, we aim to establish one of the leading universities not only in Georgia but also in Eastern Europe,” Gabisonia said.