Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University celebrates its 98th anniversary. In this regard, an event was held at the University, which was opened by the university Rector – Dr. Vladimir Papava. Professors, students and invited guests were welcomed by the university, and the importance of the education was discussed by the Minister of Education and Science – Tamar Sanikidze and the Minister of Finance – Nodar Khaduri.
During the event, faculty members and the members of the research institutes were given medals and special certificates for their immense contribution towards the university.
Towards the end of the event, a documentary film - "Origins" was presented. The film is devoted towards the first steps of the University foundation, as well as the foundation of First Medical faculty and all the individuals who contributed.
On January 26, 1918 (new style February 8), on the Day of David the Builder, a new National University was opened – University of Tbilisi, which was based on Georgian educational traditions, had solid European educational system bound to it. Owing to the initiative of Ivane Javakhishvili, Petre Melikishvili was elected as a first rector of the university, as approved by the board of professors.
At the newly established university lectures were delivered by: Ivane Javakhishvili, Iustine Abuladze, Giorgi Akhvlediani, Philipe Gogichaishvili, Ekvtime Takaishvili, Korneli Kekelidze, Shalva Nutsubidze, Elizabeth Bagration-Orbeliani, Dimitri Uznadze, Vanda Ghambashidze, Ilia Kipshidze, Joseph Kipshidze, Akaki Shanidze, Andria Benashvili, Andria Razmadze, Ivane Beritashvili and Grigol Tsereteli.
In 1989, the university was named after its founder – Ivane Javakhishvili. Nowadays it is one of the foremost scientific and educational institutions, implementing almost 200 local and international research project grants and scholarships. Tbilisi State University is one of the biggest in Georgia. At present, the university has 7 faculties with more than 20,000 students.
Tbilisi State University, offers more than 200 bachelors’, master's and PhD degree programs, as well as short and long term certification programs. Furthermore, foreign universities, are in close co-operation on the basis of any student can participate in the exchange and joint international training programs and obtain a double degree.