The Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Georgia, Mikheil Chkhenkeli held a video conference with the Vice President of Microsoft on Education, Anthony Salcito, where the parties discussed plans for future cooperation.

The Minister thanked Anthony Salcito for the high appreciation, as well as for their continuous support and fruitful projects in the field of education.

Mikheil Chkhenkeli: “The crisis created during the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us, once again, that the mutual assistance and sharing of experience is crucial to overcoming the challenge. The introduction of a proven an easy-to-use software – Microsoft Teams in the Georgian education space, has played a crucial role in the success of the Georgian education system. Additionally, the experience we gained during the crisis will also help us in the post-pandemic era. I believe that, once we all return to the traditional methods of teaching, the newly created virtual infrastructure will remain an important part of the Georgian education system."

During the meeting, the parties discussed the possibilities of Georgia's involvement in Microsoft's global initiatives. The conversation focused on the introduction of new programs in the field of education, culture, and e-sports in general and higher education institutions.

In return, Mikheil Chkhenkeli also exchanged the forthcoming plans of the Ministry, in particular, the prospect of translating Microsoft Teams software into Georgian.

Furthermore, the Minister also discussed the plan to introduce the project "Microsoft Minecraft Education Edition" in pilot mode across 150 selected schools throughout Georgia from September. Gradually, the program will cover all schools in Georgia. Learning through play - a 21st century pedagogical approach - will make the learning process more efficient and engaging. The Minecraft Education Edition program will also make the classroom management much easier and group work and homework more fun for the students.

Microsoft Regional Director, Anke de Oinen, Regional Education Manager, Albena Spasova, Director of Education in the European Region, Petronella Goel and Microsoft Georgia Education Director, David Chiaberashvili also attended the video conference.