On June 15-16, in the framework of the Erasmus+ CBHE project the “Role of Universities inthe Regional Development – RURD”, Shota Meskhia Zugdidi State Teaching University
hosted a meeting of partner universities. During the meetings, project members discussed
the completed and ongoing activities.

Within the meetings, on June 16, the Cross Project Event of the two ERASMUS+ CBHE
projects: Strengthening the Quality and Relevance of the 3rd mission in Georgian
Universities – SQUARE and RURD, was held. The event was organized to tighten the bond
through sharing common views and outcomes. Participants attended the presentation
about the Role of Institutional Evaluation in Realization of University Mission, as well as
discussed aims and outcomes, achieved results of the RURD and SQUARE projects. During
the meeting, cross project cooperation possibilities and future cooperation plans were also
discussed.

Dr. Kakha Shengelia, President of Caucasus University, Irena Melua, Director of International
Relations and Projects Department, Deputy Director Ketevan Karbaia, International Projects
Manager Akaki Kapanadze and Head of Research and Data Analysis Office, Matsatso
Tepnadze attended the meetings from Caucasus University.

These projects aiming to the development of Georgian higher education system and society
as well, partially share the goals in terms of strengthening the societal impact of HEIs of
Georgia.

The aim of the RURD project is to make Georgian regional HEIs more relevant to the
communities and regions they are located and to serve as a basis for regional development.
The purpose of the SQUARE project is to improve the quality and relevance of the third
mission of universities, which involves increasing the role of universities in the socio-
economic development of society.