On July 9, 2021, within the framework of the EC funded project “RURD”, Iakob Gogebashvili Telavi State University vice-rector for scientific affairs Nunu Geldiashvili, on behalf of the university rector, signed the memorandum about the foundation of a standing conference for rectors of regional universities. The meeting was hosted by the project coordinator Akaki Tsereteli State University.

Based on the abovementioned memorandum, a standing conference was established for regional universities in order to discuss issues and challenges specific to a region. The memorandum was signed by the universities as follows: LEPL - Akaki Tsereteli State University, LEPL - Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University, LEPL - Batumi Art Teaching University, LEPL - Batumi State Maritime Academy, LEPL - Gori State Teaching University, LEPL - Iakob Gogebashvili Telavi State University, LTD - Caucasus University, LEPL - Samtskhe-Javakheti State University, LTD - Kutaisi University, LEPL - Kutaisi International University, LEPL - Shota Meskhia Zugdidi State Teaching University.

In cooperation with the EC partners, the aim of the project is to improve the role of Georgian regional HEIs in the development of regions, to modernize mission and strategic development plan of regional universities, increase cooperation between universities and local government authorities to increase their capacity and enhance specification of each region.

Except for Telavi State University, the meeting was attended by the rectors of 11 regional universities, representatives of the Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia, National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement and local authorities.

Regional Universities of Georgia and four European partners from Spain, Austria, Czech Republic and Lithuania are participants of the Project. Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia and National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement are also involved in the RURD Project.