Ghassan Khalil, UNICEF Representative in Georgia, and Maia Khajishvili, Minister of Education, Culture and Sports of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara, visited Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University.

An international conference dedicated to the integration of children’s rights into university educational programmes and curricula is planned to be held at Batumi State University in October 2021. During a meeting with Batumi State University Rector Professor Merab Khalvashi, the participants discussed organizational matters related to the conference, as well as issues concerning the establishment of a scientific council responsible for supporting the event.

The meeting participants also discussed the composition of the conference organizing committee, in which the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara will take part.

The two-day conference will bring together university professors and students, government representatives, local and international experts on children’s rights, diplomats, as well as representatives of international organizations and civil society institutions operating in Georgia. The participants will discuss approaches to strengthening education on children’s rights within higher education institutions.

In partnership with the Government of Norway, UNICEF has already supported the establishment of a Children’s Rights Centre at Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University. The Centre will serve as an information hub and contribute to increasing awareness of children’s rights among specialists from various fields, civil society organizations, academic communities, parents, and children.

The conference will provide national and international specialists, experts, and students with opportunities to participate in discussions and deliver presentations. It will also allow Georgian universities to share initiatives aimed at integrating children’s rights education into academic programmes in fields such as education, law, business, and other important areas, thereby preparing future professionals who will advocate for and protect children’s rights.

The inclusion of children’s rights within higher education programmes and curricula will enhance students’ understanding and awareness of children’s rights. In turn, this will increase interest, strengthen motivation, and inspire future professionals - including social workers, lawyers, judges, teachers, and representatives of other professions - to work for and alongside children. Such efforts will contribute to the specialization of all professionals working with children, in accordance with the requirements of the Code on the Rights of the Child of Georgia, which entered into force on 1 September 2020.