On 14–16 September, the European Conference on Ethics and Integrity in Academia (ECEIA 2026), a major international event, was held in Batumi. Caucasus University was represented by Tamar Chokoraia, Head of the Academic Writing Center, and David Tsiklauri, Director of the Research Facilitation Department.

At the conference, Tamar Chokoraia delivered a presentation titled “A Comparative Review of Georgian and European Private Universities in the Context of Research Integrity, Ethics, and Quality.” The presentation was based on a joint study conducted by Tamar Chokoraia; David Tsiklauri; Maia Machavariani, Associate Professor at Caucasus University; and Nino Makhauri, Manager of the Research Facilitation Department. The researchers examined best practices at several European universities, established benchmarks for Georgian universities, assessed the achievements and challenges of Georgian private universities against these benchmarks, and developed recommendations for their further advancement.

ECEIA 2026 was organised by the European Network for Academic Integrity (ENAI). The conference is held annually, with Ilia State University serving as this year’s host and co-organiser. A dedicated session of the conference focused on disseminating the outcomes of the four-year project funded by the European Commission, “Responsible Conduct of Research – Research Integrity and Ethics in Georgian Universities (ETHICS).”

The event brought together researchers, academic and administrative staff, policymakers, and practitioners from various countries. It addressed current issues related to research ethics, academic and research integrity, and the responsible conduct of research.

About the Project

The primary objective of the project is to improve the existing mechanisms, procedures, and services related to research ethics and integrity at Georgian universities.

Project Coordinator

Ilia State University

For further information about the project, please visit the project website.