On October 30, the International Conference on Medical Education officially opened at Tbilisi State Medical University (TSMU). The two-day forum brings together delegates from 10 countries, more than 300 participants, and representatives of 21 institutions, including university rectors, professors, international organization representatives, and students. The opening ceremony was also attended by representatives of Georgia’s legislative and executive authorities.
The conference was opened by Professor Irakli Natroshvili, Rector OF TSMU, who emphasized the importance of the event in advancing medical education.
“The International Conference on Medical Education has officially opened today at Tbilisi State Medical University. The great interest this conference has generated shows that medical education is a highly relevant topic in Georgia, especially as the field evolves rapidly and education must keep pace. Medical education is one of the most complex fields, so I want to express my gratitude to everyone for their interest and participation,” — said Professor Irakli Natroshvili.
Givi Mikanadze, Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia, emphasized in his speech that the quality of medical education is one of the key priorities of the country. He noted that the growing interest of both local and international students in Georgian medical education underscores the need to ensure competitiveness and compliance with modern international standards. “We must respond to this growing interest and expectations with high quality, enhanced international cooperation and the development of modern infrastructure. It is highly important that TSMU is organizing this international conference focused on medical education, creating a unique platform for experience exchange and collaboration — both for Georgian specialists and international experts. I want to express my gratitude to the university team for its tireless work over the years, for preserving traditions and for the continuous improvement of quality. The Prime Minister has already presented the initial concept of higher education reform, in which Tbilisi State Medical University has a special role. In the next three to four years, we will implement reforms that will expand the university’s capacity, strengthen the quality of teaching and promote the internationalization of the learning process. I believe this international conference will become a traditional annual event, further strengthening Georgia’s place on the global map of medical education,” said the minister.
Mikheil Sarjveladze, Minister of Internally Displaced Persons from Occupied Territories, Labor, Health and Social Affairs of Georgia also addressed the participants: “Medical education remains the most essential and development-prioritized field within the education sector. For the Ministry of Health, close cooperation with the education system is crucial, especially in medicine, where the quality of knowledge and practice directly affects the nation’s healthcare system. I sincerely want to express my gratitude to every participant today and wish success to TSMU in both scientific and practical activities.”
Mariam Lashkhi, Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Education, Science and Youth Affairs, highlighted the importance of the event: “This conference is especially relevant at a time when the government has announced a large-scale higher education reform that will fundamentally improve quality. We believe that education is the foundation of a strong state, while quality medical education is the guarantee of a healthy society. One of the key pillars of this reform is indeed medical education.”
International keynote speakers also addressed the forum participants, focusing on modern trends and innovations in the development of medical education.
Professor Harm Peters, President of the Association of Medical Schools in Europe (AMSE), thanked TSMU for hosting the event: “I congratulate Tbilisi State Medical University on launching this important event. Our main goal is to connect with medical schools across regions, support improvements in medical education quality, promote research and ensure high standards of patient care. As AMSE President, I am proud to be here today. Georgia is one of our organization’s valued partners, where significant changes are taking place in this field. I eagerly look forward to the outcomes of this two-day conference.”
Professor Harm Peters was awarded the title of TSMU Honorary Doctor by Professor Irakli Natroshvili, Rector of Tbilisi State Medical University.
Professor Gordon Churchward, Associate Dean of the Emory University School of Medicine (USA) stated: “I am glad to attend the International Conference on Medical Education organized by TSMU. International cooperation in medical education is essential. Through such collaboration, we can ensure that future generations of doctors are well-prepared to meet global healthcare challenges. I look forward to our discussions.”
The International Conference on Medical Education, officially opened today, will conclude tomorrow. Over the two days, TSMU’s various venues will host plenary sessions, interactive and thematic panels, and small-group workshops, where participants will explore innovative educational approaches and new opportunities for international partnership.