Meeting regarding amendments to the Forest Codex

   Within the framework of the National Forestry Program, a public discussion was held at the Ministry of Environment Protection and Agriculture with the participation of representatives of state agencies, academic circles, non-governmental and international organizations regarding the Amendments to the Forest Codex.

Academician Lasha Dolidze, Academician-Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and Forestry Sciences of the Academy, participated in the meeting from the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences.

It was noted at the meeting that the main priority is the restoration of degraded forests, and the physical protection of forests. Accordingly, the amendments to the Code provide for the improvement of monitoring and control, and strengthening of forest protection mechanisms; it is also planned to simplify business processes and optimize the costs.

"The planned changes to the Forest Codex aim to strengthen the protection of forest resources and forests with modern technologies and technical equipment; as well as to increase the number and qualifications of foresters and forest guards. It is noteworthy that as part of the reform, from January 1, 2026, with the support of the Government of Georgia, the salaries of employees in this field have significantly increased. In parallel, it is planned to more actively involve the commercial sector, enhance the transparency of activities, and optimize costs in order to form a competitive market and make forest resources accessible to entrepreneurs," said Zurab Ezugbaia, Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture.

The draft law emphasizes the function of physical forest protection of the National Forestry Agency. It is planned to add 401 forest guards, as a result of which the area to be protected per guard will decrease from 10-15 thousand hectares to an average of 2,000 hectares. Also, in order to increase the effectiveness of forest protection and monitoring, it is planned to technically re-equip the National Forestry Agency with modern technological means.

Academician Zurab Tskitishvili turned   85
         

 Doctor of Technical Sciences, Member of the Presidium of Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Academician-Secretary of the Department of Food Safety and Food Technology Sciences, Academician Zurab Tskitishvili turned 85 on January 31 of this year, and 60 years of scientific, pedagogical and public activity.

Zurab Tskitishvili was born on January 31, 1941 in Tbilisi. In 1965 he successfully graduated from of Chemistry and Food Technology of the Georgian Polytechnic Institute, specializing in food technology and began working at the Tbilisi Dairy Plant. In 1972, he continued his work as the head of production at the Gardabani Cheese and Butter Factory, and in 1973 - as the director of the same factory. In 1976-1991, Mr. Zurab Tskitishvili was the chief engineer of the Georgian Milk Union; in 1991-1993 - the general director of the Tbilisi Dairy Plant, and since 1993 till is a President of "Amaltea". He has made a great contribution to the development of the dairy processing industry in the country.

In 1995-2007, Mr. Tskitishvili was elected a deputy of the Parliament of Georgia for three convocations. In 1995-2002, he was the chairman of the Parliament's Economy Committee. During this period, several important laws for Georgia were adopted by the Parliament of Georgia on his initiative, including: “On National Independent Regulatory Bodies”, “On Food Quality and Safety”, “On the Chamber of Commerce” and others.

Zurab Tskitishvili began his scientific activity while his postgraduate studies at the Moscow Dairy Research Institute. In 1979, he defended his candidate's thesis there and was awarded the scientific degree of Candidate of Technical Sciences. In 1991, he defended his doctoral thesis at Moscow Meat Industry Research Institute and was awarded the scientific degree of Doctor of Technical Sciences.

In 1994, Mr.Tskitishvili was elected a Corresponding Member of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and in 1997, a Full Member (Academician).

Since 2013, he has been the Academician-Secretary of the Scientific Department of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary Medicine, Food Production and Animal Products Processing of Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences; and since 2018, he has been the Academician-Secretary of the Department of Food Safety and Food Technology Sciences and the Academy’s Sectoral Coordinator for Food Safety.

In 2014, the newly established Agricultural Scientific Research Center of the Ministry of Agriculture of Georgia established a Food Safety Risk Assessment Service, headed by Mr. Zurab Tskitishvili. He was elected Chairman of the Scientific Advisory Board of the same Center.

The merits of Mr. Zurab Tskitishvili in the creation and development of the risk assessment system in Georgia is noteworthy. Based on the assessment organized by him, the Georgian Government established the threshold values ​​​​of trans-isomeric fats with genotoxic properties in food and, most importantly, state control in this field was implemented. Also noteworthy is the approval of the “Post-pandemic Risk Assessment Concept” prepared by him in 2020 and the “Risk Assessment Initiation Procedures” document, which determines the systematic approach to the risk assessment process, developed by his authorship. In 2014, the newly established Agricultural Scientific Research Center of the Ministry of Agriculture of Georgia established a Food Safety Risk Assessment Service, headed by Mr. Zurab Tskitishvili. He was elected Chairman of the Scientific Advisory Board at the same center.

Mr. Zurab has been involved in the development of the Georgian food safety system for many years as a scientific expert, coordinator and author of strategic documents. His work is based on science-based decisions, risk-oriented approaches and harmonization with international standards. As a sector coordinator, whose activities include: development of risk assessment initiation procedures, identification and ranking of priority threats, systemic integration of the One Health concept, establishment of multidisciplinary working groups and coordination platforms, he performs a connecting function: between science and policy-making structures, between risk assessment and risk management, between the national system and international organizations (FAO, WHO, Codex Alimentarius).

Under the leadership of Academician Zurab Tskitishvili, a number of important initiatives have been implemented, including: development of SOPs for risk assessment and management; establishment of conceptual frameworks for integrated analysis of environmental, animal and human health; science-based solutions; transparent communication with the public; prevention as a systemic tool. His activities are aimed at sustainable strengthening of the national food safety system, improvement of public health protection and development of Georgia in line with international practices. Academician Zurab Tskitishvili currently continues his fruitful scientific and research activities at the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences. He combined the solution of the most difficult technological and scientific tasks of the dairy processing industry with each other, laid the foundation for the risk assessment system. He has published about 90 scientific papers, including 2 books, and is the author of 17 inventions and 1 patent. He actively participates in both local and international conferences, congresses and symposiums. He has been awarded the “Order of Honor”.

Mr. Zurab Tskitishvili has two children, three grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

On behalf of Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, We congratulate you on your significant dates, wish you good health and long life, fruitful creative scientific and public activities for the benefit of our country.

Awarding the Winners of the National Award Competition

   The award ceremony of the winners of the National Prize Competition was held at the Presidential Palace, in which the Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia Givi Mikanadze participated.

In his speech, the Minister spoke about the importance of the National Prize Competition and drew attention to the outstanding role of scientists in the development of the country.

Givi Mikanadze congratulated the winners on their success and thanked them for their special contribution to the development of science.

“We thank each scientist who serves an exceptionally important aims and missions of our country. Being a scientist is a great responsibility – you bring the country such scientific achievements that becomes the property of the nation, but the results of your creative work require great knowledge and professionalism.

   Implementation of the initiatives such as the National Prize is particularly important. Awarding and recognizing scientists plays a crucial role in encouraging scientific activity, emphasizes the achievements of scientists and raises their authority, and also motivates young scientists, "said Givi Mikanadze.

The winners of the National Prize were awarded Georgian National Prize Laureate Diplomas, Badges and the corresponding cash prize by the President of Georgia Mikheil Kavelashvili.

The President thanked the winners for their worthy contribution to the enrichment of not only Georgian but also world scientific activity.

Based on the decision of the Georgian National Prize Commission, by the decree of the President, the Georgian National Prize was awarded to:

Levan Japaridze - for the cycle of scientific works: “Mechanics of Underground Structures”, “Calculation of Underground Structures Support at Limit States”, “Limit Service Conditions of Underground Structures”;

A group of authors: Roin Metreveli, Vakhtang Guruli, Lela Mikiashvili, Valerian Vashakidze, Giorgi Cheishvili, Otar Janelidze, Joni Kvitsiani and Aleksandre Daushvili - for the scientific monographic work “History of the Caucasus” (two volumes).

The National Prize Commission consisted of: Chairman of the Commission - Doctor of Law, Professor, Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia Zviad Gabisonia

Commission members:

Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor, Rector of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Academician of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences Jaba Samushia;

Candidate of Technical Sciences, Professor, Rector of the Georgian Technical University, Academician of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences David Gurgenidze;

Doctor of Economic Sciences, - Academician-Secretary of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences Vladimer Papava;

Doctor of Economic Sciences, Professor, Academician, - President of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences Givi Japaridze;

Doctor of Physical Sciences, - Professor of Ilia State University, Academician of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences Giorgi Japaridze;

Doctor of Medicine, Professor, - Rector of Tbilisi State Medical University Irakli Natroshvili;

Doctor of Biological Sciences, Director of the Giorgi Eliava Institute of Bacteriophagy, Microbiology and Virology Mzia Kutateladze;

Doctor of Philological Sciences, Professor of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Director of the Arnold Chikobava Institute of Linguistics of TSU Nana Machavariani.

The ceremony held at the Presidential Palace was attended by Zviad Gabisonia, Chairman of the National Prize Commission, Mariam Lashkhi, Chairman of the Education, Science and Youth Affairs Committee of the Parliament of Georgia, and Giorgi Chakvetadze, First Deputy Chairman of the Education, Science and Youth Affairs Committee. 

Meeting of the Innovation Commission

On January 21, 2026, a meeting of the Agrarian Innovations Commission under the Presidium of the Academy was held, at which the Head of the Agro-Industrial Crops Research Service of the Agricultural Scientific-Research Center, Associate Professor of the Georgian Agrarian University, Doctor of Agriculture Nani Goginashvili delivered a report on the topic: “Arrangement and Management of Windbreaks”.

The speaker noted that in Georgia, due to the action of strong winds, soils in agricultural areas often dry out and the humus layer is blown away, which causes crops to die. Under the influence of such winds, tree trunks, leaves, flowers, and fruits are damaged in orchards, which leads to a significant reduction in yield. As for annual crops, they are destroyed as a result of soil scattering and drying out. The country is divided into 3 regions based on the strength of the prevailing winds; Categorized into: with strong winds, moderately strong winds, and relatively weak winds.

In her report, Dr. Goginashvili emphasized that it is important for farmers and interested parties to know how to plan, cultivate, maintain, and manage windbreak zones, considering soil and climatic conditions and wind strength of a specific region of Georgia, also selecting appropriate plant species.

The speaker informed the audience that they had studied and discussed the structure, design, and functions of windbreaks; assessed wind erosion and the advantages of windbreaks in the process of growing crops for those plants most widely used to cultivate windbreaks in Georgia; It was recommended that soil and climatic conditions be taken into account when cultivating windbreaks, etc. A special emphasis was made on the importance of adhering to legislative regulations regarding the construction and maintenance of windbreaks.

The presentation was followed by discussion; the questions were asked and opinions were expressed by academicians: L. Dolidze and Al. Didebulidze, professors: Ts. Samadashvili, N. Ebanoidze and T. Bichiashvili, doctors: G. Tsopurashvili, E. Katsitadze, Z. Loladze, N. Dzidzikashvili, and L. Katamadze. After the meeting, the draft resolution was unanimously adopted, taking into account certain remarks.

The President of the Academy of Agricultural Scinces meets the staff

        On December 25, 2025, the President of the Academy, Academician Givi Japaridze, met with the employees in the conference hall of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences.

After a short greeting, Mr. Japaridze summarized the activities carried out by the Academy in 2025. It was noted that, like previous years, 2025 was also very busy and fruitful. A number of important events were held at the Academy, including conferences, round tables and thematic sessions.  

A competition was announced for the award of academic prizes named after outstanding scientists. The winning authors were awarded the title of laureate and were awarded monetary prizes. The Presidium of the Academy followed its agenda, the issues discussed were distinguished by their relevance and content. Interesting sessions were held by the Agrarian Innovations Commission and the Council of Young Scientists and Specialists under the Presidium of the Academy. All six scientific departments of the Academy worked actively. In addition to discussing problematic issues directly related to their fields, their efforts and participation solemnly marked the world and international days in the agricultural field established by the UN.

The presenter emphasized the significance of the inclusion of “Georgian Wheat Culture - Traditions and Rituals” in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List, to which the Academy has made a great contribution.

At the end of his speech, Mr. Givi congratulated everyone on the upcoming Christmas and New Year, wishing them health and success in their work. The New Year greetings were joined by the Vice-President of the Academy, Academician Guram Aleksidze; Deputy President, Academician Anatoly Giorgadze; Chief Academician-Secretary, Academician Aleksandre Didebulidze; Head of the Academic Department, Academician Marine Barvenashvili; Academician-Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and Forestry Sciences, Academician Lasha Dolidze.

At the end of the meeting, New Year gifts were distributed to the employees, organized by the trade unions of the Academy.

Conference entitled -“Our Daily Bread”

Conference - “Our Daily Bread” dedicated to Georgian Wheat Culture Tradition and National Identity

On December 26, 2025, the conference “Our Daily Bread” – Georgian Wheat Culture, Tradition and Identity was held in the Shota Rustaveli Hall of the Parliament of Georgia. The event was moderated by Nino Tsilosani, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia. The conference participants were welcomed by the Speaker of the Parliament Shalva Papuashvili, the Chairman of the Agriculture Committee of the Parliament of Georgia Gela Samkharauli, the Chairman of the Culture Committee of the Parliament of Georgia Giorgi Gabunia, the Minister of Environment and Agriculture of Georgia Davit Songhulashvili, and the Chairman of the Agricultural Development Center of the Georgian Patriarchate, Metropolitan, Bishop Davit Abba Alaverdeli.

The event was attended by the following members of Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences: Vice-President of the Academy, Academician Guram Aleksidze; Chief Academician-Secretary of the Academy, Academician Aleksandre Didebulidze; Deputy President of the Academy, Academician Anatoly Giorgadze; Head of the Academic Department of the Academy, Academician Marine Barvenashvili; Academician-Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and Forestry Sciences of the Academy, Academician Lasha Dolidze.

A panel discussion was held on “Georgian Wheat Culture: From Tradition to Science and Legal Protection” which was moderated by Nino Tsilosani, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia. The following reports were heard:

• The uniqueness of Georgian wheat, endemic varieties and scientific significance - Levan Ujmajuridze

• Ethnographic aspect - rituals, traditions and cultural memory - Rosetta Gujejiani

• The role of farmers and the practical preservation of Georgian wheat - Lali Meskhi

• UNESCO nomination process and protection of intangible heritage,

Nationally recognized intangible cultural heritage - Salome Jamburia

• Living tradition - Georgian wheat from field to table - Shota Lagazidze

• Geographical names and places of origin - Perspectives of legal protection of Georgian wheat and products made from it - Soso Giorgadze

A video clip was shown - “A small part of the work done to obtain the nomination”. The panel discussion continued in a question-and-answer format. The event was summarized by Nino Tsilosani, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia.

At the end of the meeting, the Chairman of the Agriculture Committee of the Parliament of Georgia, Gela Samkharauli, presented certificates of appreciation to scientists, researchers and specialists participating in the preparatory activities for the inclusion of “Georgian Wheat Culture: Traditions and Rituals” in the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Among them, the Deputy President of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Academician Anatoly Giorgadze, was awarded a certificate of appreciation. The meeting ended with a screening of a film nominated for UNESCO nomination in the Queen Tamar Hall of the Parliament of Georgia, an exhibition/tasting of Georgian wheat products, and a performance by the folklore ensemble.

Meeting of the leadership of Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences

with the members of Council of Young Scientists and Specialists under the Presidium of the Academy

On December 25 of this year, the leadership of the Academy, at the initiative of the President, Academician Givi Japaridze, met with the members of the Council of Young Scientists and Specialists. The meeting was opened by the Chairman of the Council, Corresponding Member of the Academy Giorgi Kavtaradze, who noted that the composition of the Council has expanded, and young scientists from the regions have also been involved in its work, which is well appraciated. Council members from the regions joined the meeting online.         

      The participants of the session were welcomed by the President of the Academy, Academician G. Japaridze; He spoke about the activities of the Academy, news, the scientific departments operating at the Academy, and the Commission on Agrarian Innovations. He drew attention to the memorandums of understanding that the Academy has concluded with various institutions, both within the country and abroad. He noted that it is precisely young scientists who are responsible for the further development of the country's agrarian sector, therefore they should make special efforts to introduce modern, innovative technologies in the country that will respond to the futher challenges in agricultureAt the meeting, each member of the Council of Young Scientists spoke about his/her activities, projects, and future plans. 

The Vice-President of the Academy, Academician Guram Aleksidze, the President's Assistant, Academician Anatoly Giorgadze, the Head of the Academic Department, Academician Marine Barvenashvili, the Curator of the Council of Young Scientists and Specialists, Academician-Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and Forestry Sciences, Academician Lasha Dolidze also participated in the work of the Council of Young Scientists and Specialists. They called on young scientists to be more active, to be involved in the work of the scientific departments of the Academy, and to participate in round tables and conferences held at the Academy. Scientists who are also engaged in teaching activities in parallel with their scientific activities were also advised to invite students to various events held at the Academy in order to help broaden the horizons of young people in the direction of agricultural sciences. At the end of the session, the Chairman of the Council of Young Scientists and Specialists, Corresponding Member of the Academy G. Kavtaradze, presented a congratulatory note on behalf of the Academy to the newly elected members of the Council.

Ceremonial Meeting at the National Palace of Georgia

UNESCO has included “Georgian Wheat Culture: Traditions and Rituals” in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. On this occasion, a ceremonial session was held in the Hall of Mirrors of the Georgian National Palace, attended by the President of Georgia Mikheil Kavelashvili, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Minister of Foreign Affairs Maka Bochorishvili, Minister of Culture Tinatin Rukhadze, Minister of Environment and Agriculture Davit Songulashvili, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament Nino Tsilosani, Mayor of Tbilisi Kakha Kaladze, members of the legislative and executive authorities and representatives of the Patriarchate. The event was attended by the Deputy President of the Academy, Academician Anatoly Giorgadze, and the Head of the Academic Department of the Academy, Academician Marine Barvenashvili.

The UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee has made a historic decision to include the Georgian wheat culture, traditions and rituals on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, which is a world recognition of uniqness of Georgian cultural heritage, - said Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze in his speech.According to the Prime Minister, wheat has been an integral part of Georgian identity, spirituality and existence for millennia.

      "Georgia is one of the oldest places of origin of wheat. Out of the 20 known wheat species in the world, 15 grow on our land, and 5 of them are endemic and come only from Georgian soil. This biodiversity is a living treasure that our ancestors have preserved. For centuries, the Georgian people have worked tirelessly, baked bread, and followed the traditions that protected the strength of families. The result of this labor is the unique diversity and, ultimately, forms the basis of our unified, rich national culture," the Prime Minister said.

According to Irakli Kobakhidze, this decision by UNESCO emphasizes another very important aspect – ancient Georgian tradition of “breaking bread with the guest” is a symbol of peace and social unity.

“Today, when the world needs harmony and unity so much, the Georgian table and bread serve precisely the idea of ​​hospitality and bringing people closer together. This recognition is a message for the future. The protection and development of endemic varieties is the greatest potential of our agricultural sector, agrotourism and green economy. Our goal is to preserve and develope these traditions, which will bring wealth and recognition to our farmers and the country,” the Prime Minister said in his speech.

The Head of Government thanked scientists, researchers, ministries, the Patriarchate of Georgia, and all those involved in the nomination preparation process; at the end of his speech he stated once again that this recognition is yet another proof that Georgia, with its unique culture, is a distinctive part of world civilization.

The importance of the historic decision of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee was emphasized by the President of Georgia Mikheil Kavelashvili, Minister of Culture Tinatin Rukhadze, Minister of Foreign Affairs Maka Bochorishvili, Minister of Environment and Agriculture Davit Songhulashvili, and Deputy Speaker of Parliament Nino Tsilosani. 

UNESCO has inscribed “Georgian Wheat Culture: Traditions and Rituals”

on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

The decision was made at the 20th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Protecting of the Intangible Cultural Heritage held in New Delhi (Republic of India).

UNESCO’s decision to recognize the traditions and rituals associated with wheat is an international recognition of the centuries-old work, knowledge and practices of the Georgian people; an emphasis on the importance of Georgian endemic species; strengthening of the interrelationship between spiritual and material culture and a commitment to future generations that the vitality of this “intangible cultural element” will be protected and developed. The intangible cultural heritage monument - “Georgian Wheat Culture: Traditions and Rituals” - was assigned the category of national significance by the Resolution No. 98 of the Government of Georgia of March 27, 2024. The nomination submitted by Georgia to the UNESCO Representative List for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on March 28, 2024 successfully passed all stages of consideration.

     Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences directly participated in the work that preceded the inclusion of “Georgian Wheat Culture: Traditions and Rituals” in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

At the initiative of the Agrarian Issues Committee of the Parliament of Georgia, and with the involvement and coordination of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, huge scientific and research work was carried out the goal of which was to include “Traditions of Growing and Using Georgian Wheat” in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage created within the framework of the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, with the great support of the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia, received funds to finance scientific and research expeditions across the country. Scientific researchers and technical personnel participated in the expeditions. Considerable activities were carried out in the following regions: Kakheti, Samtskhe-Javakheti, Racha-Lechkhumi, Kartli, Upper and Lower Svaneti, Tusheti, Guria. The following materials were found and recorded: thematic photographs of the nineteenth century; archaeological samples of endemic wheat; the participation of endemic and traditional wheat products in autumn-winter custom, also ritual cycles was studied. A film and photo shoot of the Bread Festival was carried out in Meskheti, in the city of Akhaltsikhe, where a diverse assortment of bread baked with flour obtained from Georgian wheat was presented; interviews with farmers and bakers were recorded. The processes of sowing, harvesting and baking Georgian bread in a local, traditional bakery were studied. Master classes were held and traditional Georgian folk tools were used in baking process. Film and photo shoots of interesting artifacts (unique carbonized wheat samples, discovered in Kvemo Kartli, which belong to the 6th millennium BC) were carried out in the S. Janashia and G. Chitaia Ethnographic Museums of the Georgian National Museum. Five specimens of wheat of the Neolithic period, the so-called Shulaver-Shomutepe culture, were also photographed; single-grain, double-grain and soft wheat (three specimens) and the entire collection: wheat, barley, emmer, legumes samples, artifact - imprint of wheat grain on Aliz brick. Also, the objects of filming were the exhibition artifacts kept in the G. Chitaia Ethnographic Museum, related to the sowing and growing of wheat, hoarding; various types of plowing tools - mountain and plain (large plow), kevri, kodi, etc. One day was devoted to traditional Georgian bread bakeries in Tbilisi. The participation of flour products obtained from endemic wheat species in Christmas customs and rituals in Guria was studied.

      Based on the obtained and studied materials, a film was created (due to limited requirements, the film is 10 minutes long) for submission to UNESCO. Scientific articles were prepared based on the materials of the conducted research, which were published in local and international scientific journals.

Also in 2024, the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Iv. Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University and the LEPL Agricultural Scientific-Research Center organized an international scientific conference “Georgian Wheat Culture - Rituals and Continuous Tradition of Use”. The conference was supported by: the Committee on Agrarian Issues of the Parliament of Georgia; FAO-United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization; the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia, and the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Georgia.

The International Organizing Committee of the conference was represented by scientists from 4 countries (Georgia, Japan, Great Britain, Bulgaria), and scientists and researchers from 6 countries (Georgia, Japan, Great Britain, Bulgaria, USA, Turkey) participated in the work of the conference.

Georgia joined the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2007. Over the past period, four elements of Georgia have been recognized in the World Representative List under the Convention: “Georgian Polyphony” (2001, 2008), “Georgian Traditional Method of Qvevri Wine Making” (2013), “Living Culture of Three Types of the Georgian Alphabet” (2016) and “Georgian Wrestling” (2018). It is gratifying that in 2025, “Georgian Wheat Culture: Traditions and Rituals” was added to their list.

The Commission approved by the President of Georgia, Mr. Mikheil Kavelashvili,

has announced a competition for the National Prize

The Special Commission approved by the Decree of the President of Georgia, Mr. Mikheil Kavelashvili, announces a competition for the National Prize. According to the Presidential Administration, the National Prize of Georgia is awarded to a person for a work or series of works performed at a high scientific level in the field of natural, humanitarian, social, political, economic, legal, medical, life sciences or engineering sciences, which has gained universal recognition and made a special contribution not only to the spiritual, social and/or economic development of Georgian science, but also to the world.

The prize is awarded annually, no more than two times, each in the amount of 10,000 GEL. The person who wins the prize will be awarded a prize laureate diploma, a badge and a corresponding cash prize.

The first session of the 9-member commission was held today at the Presidential Palace. The National Prize Commission, approved by the Presidential Decree, is composed of:

Chairman of the Commission - Doctor of Law, Professor, Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia Zviad Gabisonia

comission members:

1. Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor, LEPL - Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University Rector, LEPL - Academician of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences Jaba Samushia;

2. Candidate of Technical Sciences, Professor, LEPL - Rector of the Georgian Technical University, LEPL - Academician of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences David Gurgenidze;

3. Doctor of Economic Sciences, LEPL - Academician-Secretary of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences Vladimir Papava;

4. Doctor of Economic Sciences, Professor, Academician, LEPL - President of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences Givi Japaridze;

5. Doctor of Physical Sciences, LEPL - Professor of Ilia State University, LEPL - Academician of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences Giorgi Japaridze;

6. Doctor of Medicine, Professor, LEPL - Rector of Tbilisi State Medical University Irakli Natroshvili;

7. Doctor of Biological Sciences, LEPL - Acting Director of the Giorgi Eliava Institute of Bacteriophagy, Microbiology and Virology Mzia Kutateladze;

8. Doctor of Philological Sciences, LEPL - Professor of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Director of the Arnold Chikobava Institute of Linguistics of TSU Nana Machavariani.

Rules for nomination of candidates/conditions for submission of papers:

The award, as a rule, is awarded to a citizen of Georgia. By decision of the President of Georgia, the award may be awarded to a foreigner or a stateless person; Candidates for the award are entitled to be nominated by educational and scientific institutions, creative or other public organizations, initiative groups operating in the relevant field of science with the appropriate authority and competence; a group of authors/co-authors may be nominated for the award; the award may be awarded to a deceased author if his/her work was published before the deadline for accepting competition applications and meets the conditions established by relevant legislation; nomination for the award is permitted only after the publication of a scientific work and/or its practical application; repeated submission of the same work is prohibited, except in cases where the work was not accepted for the competition due to a technical defect.

Documents to be submitted for participation in the competition:

A submission with a description of the work and a statement of the special merits for which its author is nominated for the award. The document must be signed by the head of the submitting organization/all members of the initiative group; Reviews published in the media about the competition work and/or other materials to create a presentation of the work; Scientific work - in case of material submission, 9 copies (including at least one original); Candidate's biography (CV), list of scientific works; Copy of the candidate's ID card or passport.

December 5 - World Soil Day

 On December 5 of this year, a conference dedicated to World Soil Day was traditionally held at the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences. The conference was attended by the Vice-President of the Academy, Academician Guram Aleksidze, Head of the Academic Department, Academician Marine Barvenashvili, Academician-Secretary of the Department of Agronomic Sciences, Academician Gogola Margvelashvili, Academician-Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and Forestry Sciences, Academician Lasha Dolidze, Academicians Jemal Gugushvili and Zaur Chankseliani, Corresponding Member Gizo Gogichaishvili, Learned Secretary of the Department of Agronomic Sciences, Dr. Giorgi Gambashidze, as well as employees of the Academy's staff, the Soil Fertility Research Service of the LEPL Agricultural Scientific-Research Center, and the National Environmental Agency.

The conference was opened and the Academician-Secretary of the Department of Agronomic Sciences, Academician Gogola Margvelashvili, addressed a welcoming speech to the audience. After the welcome, Ms. Gogola briefly reviewed the history of the establishment of World Soil Day, its goals and objectives. It was noted that every year FAO announces a slogan for this day. The slogan for 2025 was: “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities”, which emphasized that soil is not only very valuable for agriculture, but also has great importance under buildings and roads in cities.

Academician G. Margvelashvili also presented a report to the audience on the topic: “Georgian soil needs more attention and care”.  

“Soil depletion, its degradation - this is a major problem for any country, and, conversely, maintaining and increasing soil fertility is the main thing that agricultural production in all countries is based on,” noted Ms. Gogola. Then she reviewed the countries where great attention is paid to maintaining and increasing soil fertility, including the Netherlands, as a small-land country where they especially care about the soil, so much so that this country ranks second in the world in terms of agricultural product exports. Ms. Gogola also discussed the current state of soils in Georgia. She emphasized the fact that for the past 35 years, soil has remained beyond the attention of the state; soil fertility has not been monitored and appropriate agrotechnical measures have not been taken. That is why in our already land-poor country, significant areas of land (more than 400-450 thousand hectares) are uncultivated and unsown, thousands of hectares of abandoned land are undergoing degradation and are under the threat of turning into a desert. Then the speaker noted that the state needs to take effective measures to correct the current situation as soon as possible. It is necessary to restore the previously existing “State Service for Agrochemistry and Soil Fertility Protection” under the Ministry of Agriculture, conduct soil passporting, etc.

National Workshop at the Ministry of Environment and Agriculture of Georgia
Discussion of the National Strategy for Land Consolidation in Georgia

The Ministry of Environment and Agriculture of Georgia and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) organized a national workshop on land consolidation in Georgia on November 20, 2025 at the Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel.

In his welcoming speech, Giorgi Micheladze, Chairman of the National Agency for Sustainable Land Management and Land Use Monitoring, emphasized the necessity of the land consolidation process, at the same time, he emphasized the difficulty of implementing the said procedure and added that the basis for its launch is a strategic vision document.77

The draft of the National Strategy for Land Consolidation of Georgia was presented to the audience by David Egiashvili, Land Policy Specialist of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). He reviewed the vision, goals, principles and stages of land consolidation in Georgia, as well as the institutional framework and funding sources for land consolidation. The document laid the foundation for further discussions and consultations on land consolidation policy.

The meeting was attended by academicians from the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences: Nodar Chitanava and Aleksandre Didebulidze, who presented the Academy’s position on the issue to the attendees.

Academic Prizes for Outstanding Scientists

By the Resolution of the Presidium of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences

The following academic prizes were awarded:

1. Levan Kanchaveli Prize - to Academician of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences Guram Aleksidze for the book "Plant Protection".

2. Varlam Shamatava Prize - to Academician of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences Guram Tkemaladze for the textbook "Fundamentals of Biochemistry" and to Doctor of Veterinary Sciences Levan Makaradze and Doctor of Veterinary Sciences Zurab Makaradze for the textbook "Pathological Anatomy of Animal and Poultry Diseases".

3. Konstantine Amirajibi Prize - to Corresponding Member of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Doctor of Technical Sciences Omar Tedoradze and Doctor of Technical Sciences Nugzar Sarjveladze for the monograph “Fundamentals of Calculation and Construction of Harvesting Machines for Cereal and Grassy Crops” and to Doctor of Technical Sciences Zaza Makharoblidze and Doctors of Technical Sciences: Vladimer Margvelashvili and Sergo Sharashenidze for the cycle of works: “Development of Machine Technology and Machine Complexes for the Rehabilitation of Agricultural Lands”.

4. Vasil Petriashvili Prize - to Academician of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences Nugzar Baghaturia, under his joint editorship and authorship, for the auxiliary textbook "Food Technology" and to Doctor of Technical Sciences Tamaz Kobaidze for the work "Encyclopedic Dictionary of Viticulture and Winemaking".

5. Mikheil Murvanishvili Prize - to Corresponding Member of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Doctor of Agricultural Sciences Gizo Gogichaishvili for the chapters "Land Use" and "Soil Erosion" in the monograph "Soils of Georgia".

6. Ivane Jashi Prize - to academicians of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences: Revaz Asatiani and Paata Koghuashvili (posthumously) for the book "Industrial Village - A Global Challenge of the Future".

International Science Day - for Peace and Development

    On November 10 of this year, a ceremonial session was traditionally held at the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, dedicated to the International Day of Science.

The session was attended by: President of the Academy, Academician Givi Japaridze; Vice-President, Academician Guram Aleksidze; Deputy President, Academician Anatoly Giorgadze; Chief Academician-Secretary, Academician Aleksandre Didebulidze; Head of the Academic Department, Academician Marine Barvenashvili; Academician-Secretary of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Academician Tengiz Kurashvili; Academician-Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and Forestry Sciences, Academician Lasha Dolidze; Director of the Scientific Coordination Center of Western Georgia, Academician Roland Kopaliani, Academician Jemal Gugushvili, as well as employees of the Academy's staff and invited guests.

The ceremonial session was opened by the President of the Academy, Academician Givi Japaridze. After the greeting, he introduced the invited guests to the history, structure, and activities of the Academy. He spoke about the activities of individual scientific departments, the Institute of Coordinators of Various Directions of the Agrarian Field at the Academy, and the Academy's business relations with various government agencies, scientific-educational, and academic circles. He drew attention to the memorandums of understanding that the Academy has concluded with both local scientific institutions and foreign academies and scientific-research institutes of the agricultural field. Mr. Givi emphasized the importance of the Academy's ties with the regions. It was noted that serious steps have already been taken in this direction. The scientific-coordination centers of Adjara and Western Georgia have been established. However, this is not enough. It is planned to establish similar scientific-coordination centers at the Academy in other regions of the country, including Javakheti, Kakheti, etc. ecf55dd1 a908 41fe ac11 98a5b354c88d

At the end of the ceremonial session, the President of the Academy, Academician Givi Japaridze, awarded the Academy's honorary diploma and badge to successful scientists working in the agricultural field:

Varlam Aplakov - Associate Professor of the Agrarian Faculty of Akaki Tsereteli State University, Doctor of Biology;

Emzar Kilasonia - Associate Professor of the Agrarian Faculty of Akaki Tsereteli State University, Doctor of Agro-Engineering;

Nunu Chachkhiani - Professor of the Faculty of Agriculture of Akaki Tsereteli State University, Doctor of Agriculture;

Lia Kopaliani - Head of the Department of Subtropical Crops of the Faculty of Agriculture of Akaki Tsereteli State University, Associate Professor, Doctor of Agriculture;

Izolda Khasaia - Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture of Akaki Tsereteli State University, Associate Professor of the Department of Tourism and Landscape Architecture, Doctor of Physics and Mathematics;

Omar Lomsadze - General Veterinarian of the Veterinary Clinic “Forvet”, Master of Veterinary Medicine;

Giorgi Butskhrikidze - Chief Inspector of the First Division of the Tbilisi Department of the National Food Agency of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Doctoral Student;

Vladimer Baratashvili - Senior Specialist of the Animal Health Division of the Veterinary Department of the National Food Agency of the Ministry of Environment Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine;

Tamaz Bichiashvili - Professor of the Faculty of Engineering Technology of the Georgian Agrarian University, Doctor of Technical Sciences;

Bagrat Razmadze - Senior Specialist of the Scientific Department of the Shota Rustaveli Georgian National Science Foundation, Master of Economics;

Ivane Kapanadze - Assistant Professor of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of the Georgian Agrarian University, Doctor of Agricultural Engineering;

Irine Chargeishvili - Laboratory Assistant of the Plant Biology Laboratory of the Georgian Agrarian University, Doctor of Agricultural Sciences;

Ana Tavartkiladze - Chief Specialist of the Risk Assessment Service of the Agricultural Scientific Research Center of the LEPL, PhD student;

Ketevan Macharashvili - Senior Specialist of the Risk Assessment Service of the Agricultural Scientific Research Center of the LEPL, Master of Chemistry;

Zurab Andghuladze - Research Fellow, Engineer-Designer, Institute of Tea, Subtropical Crops and Tea Industry, Georgian Agrarian University;

Ekaterine Gobronidze - Research Fellow, Doctor of Technical Sciences, Institute of Tea, Subtropical Crops and Tea Industry, Georgian Agrarian University;

Ketevan Chikashua - Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Tea, Subtropical Crops and Tea Industry of the Georgian Agrarian University, Doctor of Biology.

After the award ceremony, the guests took a commemorative photo and toured the Academy's Information Center and Exhibition Hall.

International Science Day at the Georgian National Academy of Sciences

 The Georgian National Academy of Sciences traditionally annually celebrates the International Science Day established by UNESCO. This year, on November 10, the celebration of this day began with the ceremonial opening of the Science Museum. The museum was opened by the President of the Academy, Academician Roin Metreveli, and the Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia Givi Mikanadze. Academician Lia Melikishvili made a great contribution to the creation of the museum. The goal of the Academy’s museum is to revive the historical heritage of science and present it to the public. This space reflects the history of the Academy from its founding to the present day; its presidents, scientific departments, research institutes, photographic materials and memorabilia, banners of the Georgian Encyclopedia and the Rustaveli Committee, etc. 

The meeting was attended by the Academy’s Vice-President, Academician Guram Aleksidze, and the Academy’s Chief Academician-Secretary, Academician Aleksandre Didebulidze.211

The event was opened with an introductory speech by the Academy’s President, Academician Roin Metreveli. He spoke about the importance of science and its development. Then the floor was given to the Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia, Givi Mikanadze, who presented the congratulations of the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze, to the Georgian scientists. The gathered public was also addressed by the Chairwoman of the Georgian Parliament’s Committee on Education, Science and Youth Affairs, Mariam Lashkhi.

The event was attended by: Zurab Abashidze, Chairman of the Tbilisi City Council, Jaba Samushia, Rector of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, David Gurgenidze, Rector of the Georgian Technical University, academicians, prominent representatives of society.

At the end of the event, by the resolution of the Presidium of the Academy, academic prizes named after outstanding scientists were awarded to more than 40 scientists who won awards in various fields of science.

International Science Day

20th Anniversary of the Shota Rustaveli Georgian National Science Foundation and

International Science Day

   2025 will mark the 20th anniversary of the Shota Rustaveli Georgian National Science Foundation. In this regard, a presentation on the Foundation’s goals, main directions, achieved results and future priorities was held at the Sheraton Metekhi Palace Hotel. The event coincided with International Science Day.

The main slogan of the 2025 International Science Day is: “Trust, Transformation and the Future - What Science Should Be Like in 2050.”

The event was attended by representatives of the executive and legislative authorities, university rectors, scientists, researchers and other invited guests. The meeting was attended by the Deputy President of the Academy, Academician Anatoly Giorgadze from Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences.

The event was welcomed by the Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia Givi Mikanadze, the Chairperson of the Committee on Education, Science and Youth Affairs of the Parliament of Georgia Mariam Lashkhi, the President of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences, Academician Roin Metreveli, the Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia Zviad Gabisonia, and the Director of the Rustaveli Georgian National Science Foundation Teimuraz Dochviri.

In connection with the International Science Day, the Minister of Education, Science and Minister of Youth Givi Mikanadze presented certificates and honorary awards to distinguished and young scientists for their outstanding scientific and pedagogical work.

As part of the event, certificates and honorary awards were presented to 10 laureates of the Rustaveli Foundation Prize for a Contribution to Science and distinguished Achievements to young scientists who won seven scientific disciplines in the Rustaveli Foundation Prize Competition for Special Achievements in Science, and to a female scientist who won the Rustaveli Foundation Prize Competition for Special Achievements in Mathematics.

International Science Day at the Georgian National Academy of Sciences

The Georgian National Academy of Sciences traditionally celebrates the International Science Day established by UNESCO every year. This year, on November 10, the celebration of this day began with the ceremonial opening of the Science Museum. The museum was opened by the President of the Academy, Academician Roin Metreveli, and the Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia Givi Mikanadze. Academician Lia Melikishvili made a great contribution to the creation of the museum. The goal of the Academy’s museum is to revive the historical heritage of science and present it to the public. This space reflects the history of the Academy from its founding to the present day; its presidents, scientific departments, research institutes, photographic materials and memorabilia, banners of the Georgian Encyclopedia and the Rustaveli Committee, etc.

The meeting was attended by the Academy’s Vice-President, Academician Guram Aleksidze, and the Academy’s Chief Academician-Secretary, Academician Aleksandre Didebulidze.

The event was opened with an introductory speech by the Academy’s President, Academician Roin Metreveli. He spoke about the importance of science and its development. Then the speech was given to the Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia, Givi Mikanadze, who introduced the public to the congratulations of the Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Kobakhidze to Georgian scientists. The gathered public was also addressed by the Chairperson of the Committee on Education, Science and Youth Affairs of the Parliament of Georgia, Mariam Lashkhi.

The event was attended by: Chairman of the Tbilisi City Council Zurab Abashidze, Rector of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University Jaba Samushia, Rector of the Georgian Technical University Davit Gurgenidze, academicians, and prominent representatives of society.

At the end of the event, by the decree of the Presidium of the Academy, academic prizes named after outstanding scientists were awarded to more than 40 scientists who had won awards in various fields of science.

General Meeting of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences

On October 17 of this year, the General Meeting of the Academy was held at Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences. The meeting was attended by academicians: Givi Japaridze, Guram Aleksidze, Revaz Asatiani, Iveri Akhalbedashvili, Marine Barvenashvili, Nugzar Baghaturia, Anatoly Giorgadze, Jemal Gugushvili, Aleksandre Didebulidze, Lasha Dolidze, Jemal Katsitadze, Vazha Kvaliashvili, Edisher Kvesitadze, Roland Kopaliani, Gogola Margvelashvili, Guram Papunidze, Temur Revishvili, Guram Tkemaladze, Levan Ujmajuridze, Zaur Putkaradze, Tengiz Kurashvili, Zaur Chankseliani, Zurab Tskitishvili, Nodar Chitanava.

After a brief greeting, the Chairman of the General Assembly of the Academy, President of the Academy, Academician Givi Japaridze introduced the agenda to the academicians participating in the meeting:

1. Information on the applications of the candidates participating in the competition, the conformity of the documents, and the candidates recommended and admitted to participate in the elections to fill the vacant seats of the Academy's Corresponding Members by the joint meetings of the Academy's departments of sciences, reviewed by the Competition-Expert Commission, established by the order of the President of the Academy on the basis of the resolution of the Presidium, in order to conduct the competition for the selection of the Academy's Corresponding Members in a highly organized manner.

Speaker: Chairman of the Competition-Expert Commission, Academician Nodar Chitanava.

2. Information on the scientific activities of the candidates participating in the elections to fill the vacant seats of the Academy's Corresponding Members.

Speakers:

Candidates participating in the competition for the vacant position in the Department of Agronomic Sciences: Doctor of Agricultural Sciences Gizo Gogichaishvili,

Doctor of Agriculture David Maghradze.

Candidates participating in the competition for the vacant position in the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences: Doctor of Veterinary Sciences David Goderdzishvili, Doctor of Veterinary Sciences Maia Kereselidze.

Candidates participating in the competition for the vacant position in the Department of Agro-engineering Sciences: Doctor of Technical Sciences Omar Tedoradze, Doctor of Technical Sciences Zaza Makharoblidze, Doctor of Technical Sciences Gela Javakhishvili;

Candidates participating in the competition for the vacant position of the Department of Food Safety and Food Technology Sciences: Doctor of Engineering Malkhaz Dolidze, Doctor of Engineering Ekaterina Katsitadze, Doctor of Biology Ketevan Laperashvili.

Candidate participating in the competition for the vacant position of the Department of Environmental Protection and Forestry Sciences: Doctor of Forestry Giorgi Kavtaradze;

Candidate participating in the competition for the vacant position of the Department of Economic Sciences: Doctor of Economics Ekaterine Zviadadze.

3. Voting for candidates to fill the vacant positions of corresponding members of the Academy (secret ballot).

4. Announcement of the results of the competition.

5. Current issues.

The meeting was held in accordance with the presented agenda.

After the completion of the secret ballot procedure to fill the vacant positions of the corresponding member of the Academy, the chairman of the meeting, Academician Givi Japaridze, announced the results of the ballot in the departments of Agronomy, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Environmental Protection and Forestry, and Economic Sciences, according to which the candidates participating in the elections to fill the vacant positions of the corresponding members of the Academy: Doctor of Agricultural Sciences Gizo Gogichaishvili, Doctor of Veterinary Sciences David Goderdzishvili, Doctor of Forestry Giorgi Kavtaradze, and Doctor of Economics Ekaterine Zviadadze were elected as correspondent members of the Academy.

As for the election of the member - correspondents in the remaining two departments of the Academy: Agroengineering and Food Safety and Food Technology Sciences, it was necessary to hold a second round. According to the secret ballot procedure, the results of which were also announced by the Chairman of the meeting, Academician Givi Japaridze, the following winners were revealed: Doctor of Technical Sciences Omar Tedoradze was elected as a corresponding member of the Academy in the Department of Agro-engineering Sciences, and Doctor of Technical Sciences Malkhaz Dolidze was elected as a corresponding member of the Academy in the Department of Food Safety and Food Technology Sciences.

The newly elected Corresponding Members of the Academy: Mr. Gizo Gogichaishvili, Mr. David Goderdzishvili, Mr. Omar Tedoradze, Mr. Malkhaz Dolidze, Mr. Giorgi Kavtaradze and Ms. Ekaterine Zviadadze thanked the academicians participating in the meeting for the support and trust they expressed in them.

Visiting I. Gogebashvili Telavi State University

  On October 15 of this year, the final event of the “Science Festival 2025” was held at

I. Gogebashvili Telavi State University, which was attended by the Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia, Mr. Givi Mikanadze.

“Organizing a large-scale science festival has already become a tradition in Georgia.

Active involvement of young people in scientific activities is increasing year by year, and the awareness of the festival is also growing. This is evidenced by the fact that, along with universities accredited in Georgia, more and more foreign universities are participating in it.

The development of scientific activity and its popularization are a specific priority, important for the progress of the country and economic sustainability. This is exactly what the festival serves, and accordingly, we will actively continue and support the implementation of similar initiatives in the future,” said Givi Mikanadze.

Among the invited guests at the event were: representatives of the I. Beritashvili Experimental Biomedicine Center, I. Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Georgian Technical University, the Georgian National Office “Horizon Europe”, College “Prestige” and other organizations. The following persons participated in the festival from the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences: the Chief Academician-Secretary of the Academy, Academician Aleksandre Didebulidze, the Head of the Academic Department, Academician Marine Barvenashvili, a member of the Council of Young Scientists and Specialists under the Presidium of the Academy, Dr. Irine Chargeishvili, and the Coordinator of the Electrification and Automation of Agriculture Direction of the Academy, Dr. Tamaz Bichiashvili.

The exhibition space of the festival demonstrated innovative inventions and printed products of the academic staff of the host university, students, as well as representatives of partner organizations.

In the pavilion of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, recommendations, collections of scientific works, books, brochures, etc., published in various areas of the agricultural sector, were exhibited, about which information was provided to interested persons by academicians: A. Didebulidze and M. Barvenashvili. The exhibits related to Georgian silk, its production and the current state of the sericulture sector attracted special attention from the visitors. In this regard, the visitors asked a number of questions, to which Dr. I. Chargeishvili gave answers. In addition, Dr. T. Bichiashvili, which will provide significant assistance to those engaged in the field of plant breeding.

It is noteworthy that the pavilion of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences was visited by the Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia: Mr. Zviad Gabisonia, Head of the Department of Science, Ms. Ketevan Kokrashvili, Rector of Telavi State University, Mr. Shalva Chkadua and the professors of the host university.

At the end of the festival, a concert was held, in which dance and song ensembles participated.

Foresters’ international Day celebrated at the Academy of agricultural Sciences

  On October 9 of this year, a thematic session dedicated to the Forester's Day (October 10) was held at the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, organized by the Department of Environmental Protection and Forestry Sciences of the Academy.

The session was attended by: Academician-Secretary of the Department, Academician Lasha Dolidze, Head of the Academic Department, Academician Marine Barvenashvili, Fellow of the Department: Doctor of Agriculture Zviad Tiginashvili, Acting Director of the Forestry Institute, Doctor of Forestry Giorgi Kavtaradze, Academy staff.... The thematic session was opened by Academician Lasha Dolidze, Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and Forestry Sciences of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences. After the greetings, he congratulated the foresters on their professional day and wished them success in their work. The thematic session was conducted in accordance with the agenda and the audience heard a report by Zviad Tiginashvili, a fellow of the Academy: “Features of the structure of pure groves of Georgian oak (Querqus petraea aubsp. Iberica) in the Tsiv-Gombori region”. The speaker reviewed the processes of degradation, unsatisfactory renewal and forest drying in oak forests worldwide, the first symptoms of which were noted as early as the 18th century in Europe, later in America and Asia. It was noted that the issue of restoring oak forests and promoting natural renewal in them is very relevant in the Caucasus region, in particular in Georgia. The problem is not only economic (due to the very low productivity of oak forests and the demand for its expensive timber), but also socio-aesthetic. Today, oak forests in Georgia occupy 0.29 million hectares. Of the 7 species of oak widespread in Georgia, the Georgian oak occupies the largest area, it is found throughout forested Georgia. Oak forests are distinguished by extremely high protective, high economic values ​​and biodiversity. Analysis of the growth and development, natural renewal, and structure of the Georgian oak grove provides an opportunity to study and cover a number of scientifically substantiated issues. The formation, structure, and age-related development of the grove depend on the natural conditions of the location and its bioecology. The results of the current state of the ecosystems of the Georgian oak forest, their bioecological potential, structure, and growth and development can serve as a basis for forest regeneration. Therefore, the study of the features of the formation, growth, and development of oak groves in relation to environmental conditions is very relevant. The speaker drew attention to the regularity between the number of trees and the thickness levels detected in the Georgian oak formations originating from seeds in the Tsiv-Gombori region. It was noted that the number of trees in the smallest oak diameter levels is small and varies within 1.7-3.4%. Then, in parallel with the increase in thickness levels, the number of trees increases and reaches its peak in the 28-36 cm levels (72.2%). With a further increase in thickness levels, the number of trees decreases sharply and is represented within 3.1-1.7%. The average indicators of the order of tree distribution in the grove are derived.

In oak-dominated groves, where hornbeam is mixed with 1-2 units, the existing vertical structure has been revealed as a result of tree differentiation, which is reflected in the formation of a two-story grove. The first floor is represented by oak, the second by hornbeam.

After the report, an active discussion was held in question-and-answer mode. Dr. Z. Tiginashvili provided exhaustive answers to the questions asked by the audience, which mainly concerned problems related to Georgian forests.

At the end of the round table, Academician-Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and Forestry Sciences of the Academy, Academician Lasha Dolidze, thanked the audience for coming and added that such meetings contribute to the discussion of challenges related to Georgian forests and their solutions.

Congratulations

Academician of the Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences,

Doctor of Agricultural Sciences, prominent representative of the Georgian School of Agrochemists, Mr. Zaur Chankseliani

was elected an honorary citizen of Lentekhi on October 1 of this year.

The Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences cordially congratulates Mr. Zaur on this great award, wishes him many years of happiness and success in scientific and public activities for the benefit of our country!

International Conference

Education and Scince in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Innovations, Researches and International Relations

  The Georgian National Academy of Sciences hosted the international conference “Education and Science in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Innovations, Research and International Cooperation” on October 2-3.

The conference was organized by the Georgian National Academy of Sciences and the Georgian National Office of Horizon Europe of the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia. The format of the conference was hybrid and it was attended by both Georgian and foreign scientists. Education and science policy makers and innovators from both Europe and Georgia. The conference aimed to discuss the practical and strategic impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on education systems, scientific research and institutional development processes.

The conference was opened and the audience was welcomed by the President of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences, Academician Roin Metreveli. In his speech, Mr. Roin noted - “Today's reality shows that artificial intelligence is no longer just a technology of the future. It is already an integral part of our daily lives, economy, healthcare, science and education.

Such rapid development, scale and impact on current events are rarely remembered in human history. That is why it is of utmost importance for us to analyze how to combine innovative technologies with education and science systems in such a way that they contribute to the development of society, international cooperation and the protection of cultural values.

This conference is the best opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences.

The mission of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences is to promote the progress of science, strengthen the national education system, and integrate the country into the global scientific community. We believe that the proper integration of artificial intelligence will not only strengthen the research potential, but also significantly contribute to the social and economic development of the country. In addition, it is essential for us to use the capabilities of artificial intelligence to support and promote the scientific disciplines of Georgia - history, languages ​​and literature, philosophy and religion, art and architecture, natural environment and agricultural heritage - and their international promotion. In order to coordinate scientific activities in this and other areas, a permanent working group has been created under the President of the Academy, the first result of whose activities is the organization of today's conference."

The following participants of the Conference also delivered welcoming speeches at the conference: Givi Mikanadze, Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia; Mariam Lashkhi, Chair of the Committee on Education, Science and Youth Affairs of the Parliament of Georgia; Zviad Gabisonia, Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia; Ramaz Khurodze, Vice-President of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences; Ketevan Kokrashvili, Head of the Science Department of the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia; and Levan Khetsuriani, Head of the National Office of Horizon Europe Georgia.

The conference was attended by the President of the Academy, Academician Givi Japaridze, Deputy President, Academician Anatoly Giorgadze, Academician-Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and Forestry Sciences, Academician Lasha Dolidze, and Coordinator of Relations with Higher Educational Institutions, Academician Jemal Gugushvuli.

After the welcome remarks, the first day of the conference was dedicated to the strategic visions of universities, international speakers, projects and reports by Georgian academics - “Strategic Visions of Universities and AI”, which were presented by: Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia Zviad Gabisonia, Rector of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Academician Jaba Samushia, Chairman of the Supervisory Board (President) of the Georgian Technical University Zurab Gudavadze, Rector of Tbilisi State Medical University Irakli Natroshvili, Rector of the University of Business and Technology Nino Enukidze, President of Caucasus University Kakhaber Shengelia, Acting Rector of Kutaisi International University Paata Turava, Rector of Telavi State University Shalva Chkadua and Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University Rector, and others.

  The second day of the conference was also very busy. Local research and innovations in education and science in the direction of AI were presented. Representatives of various universities and scientific-research institutes presented interesting reports to the audience. Presentations were made by: Aleksandre Gamkrelidze and Irakli Kobakhidze from Iv. Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University; Zurab Bosikashvili, Rati Neparidze and Natia Kukhilava from the Georgian Technical University; Rima Beriashvili and Tinatin Tkemaladze from the Tbilisi State Medical University; Maxim Ivich, Vladimer Svanadze, Rati Skhirtladze, Giorgi Kakalashvili and Zaza Tsotniashvili from the Caucasus International University; Zaza Tabagari from the Niko Muskhelishvili Institute of Computational Mathematics; from the Georgian-American University - Tsira Barbakadze; from St. Andrew Georgian University - Luka Kurdelia.

The reports, discussions and presentations of innovative projects presented by about thirty scientists participated at the conference, will significantly enrich both national and international understanding of AI.

"Science Festival 2025" at Akaki Tsereteli State University

   On September 29 of this year, a Science Festival was held at Akaki Tsereteli State University in Kutaisi, with the support of the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia. The festival aimed to popularize science, strengthen the involvement of the younger generation in research and innovative activities, raise their awareness, motivate young people in science and encourage interdisciplinary research.

The festival was attended by: the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia: Minister, Mr. Givi Mikanadze, Deputy Minister, Mr. Zviad Gabisonia, heads of departments, as well as representatives of Iv. Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Georgian Technical University, the Georgian National Office “Horizon Europe” and other educational organizations and general education schools.

The Georgian Academy of Agricultural Sciences was represented by Academician-Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and Forestry Sciences of the Academy, Academician Lasha Dolidze, and Head of the Information Center Ketevan Chipashvili.

Various events were held within the framework of the festival: a scientific conference “Young Scientists for Regional and Global Development”, presentations of the projects: “Kutaisi - the Ancient City of Georgia” and “Commercialization in the Direction of Landscape Architecture”, as well as working meetings.

It is worth noting the interest of young people, university teaching staff, and guests participating in the festival in the scientific works and recommendations presented by the Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Young people showed special interest in various animal diseases and their prevention, breeding of rabbits and domestic birds, technologies for the production and processing of agricultural products, ecosystems of Georgian forests, etc.

At the end of the festival, a concert was organized, in which the band "Ocho's Hut" participated.