New Model for Higher Education Funding

Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia, Givi Mikanadze and Deputy Minister, Zviad Gabisonia, held a working meeting with the PMU of the World Bank-funded Innovation, Inclusion, and Quality (I2Q) Project and experts working on a higher education financing model.

The meeting focused on the discussion of the new model and tools for HE funding developed under the I2Q project. Drawing on an in-depth analysis of national-level needs and research into best international practices, local and international education experts have been working for several years on the development of diversified financing mechanisms for the Georgian HE system.

During the meeting, participants reviewed a Core Funding model aimed at ensuring the financial sustainability of HEIs and recognizing the specific needs of academic programs through the identification of differentiated tuition fees. The meeting also addressed a Performance-based Funding model that considers state priorities and needs. Participants additionally examined one of the financing instruments — the Competitive Innovation Fund (CIF), which has been operating within the HE system since 2022.

The Ministry continues its active work on establishing a new funding model, with higher education institutions set to be involved in the subsequent stages of its review and development.