The First Deputy Minister of Education, Science, and Youth of Georgia, Aleksandre Tsuladze, participated in the opening event of the "University Capacity Development Program."

Addressing the audience, the First Deputy Minister emphasized the program's significance in strengthening research administration capabilities within Georgia's higher educational institutions. 

Aleksandre Tsuladze expressed gratitude to the United States government for their longstanding partnership. He highlighted the implementation of several large-scale educational projects in Georgia with US funding, particularly emphasizing their importance in improving the educational system and supporting youth. 

The First Deputy Minister noted that further deepening cooperation between Georgian and American universities will contribute significantly to the development of human capital, innovation, and the country's economic sectors. 

The "University Capacity Development Program (UCBP)" is an initiative sponsored by the Embassy of the United States of America in Georgia. The program aims to enhance the capacities of research administration and development offices in Georgia's higher educational institutions, thereby bolstering the contributions of these institutions to Georgia's economic advancement.

Administered by the American Councils on International Education in cooperation with the US National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA), the program will be implemented in four stages:

-           US-Georgia Research Collaboration Needs Assessment and Workshop: American Councils and NCURA will conduct a needs assessment for research administrators and development offices at participating universities. Professional development trainings will also be organized within the workshop to promote international cooperation and knowledge transfer between Georgia, the USA, and the European Union.

-          Series of webinars for program participants: The program will host webinars on various important topics with the participation of US experts.

-          Study visit to the USA: Ten research administrators/representatives from development offices or research departments in Georgia will have the opportunity to learn about best practices in research management, fundraising, and international collaboration at 12 American universities/educational institutions over a two-week period. This visit aims to enhance participants' capacities in research administration and innovation management.

-           Return visit of American experts: Georgian participants of the program will have the chance to submit project applications for a return visit of American experts. During this visit, the invited expert will collaborate with the host university in research administration, development of research activities, fundraising, and/or alumni engagement.