On March 25, 29-30, 2021 in the framework of the ERASMUS + Institutional Development (CBHE) project "Role of Regional Universities in Regional Development" (RURD), a training was held with the participation of Caucasus University project members and Employees of Caucasus University Batumi Campus.

The meeting was conducted by FH Joanneum, University of Applied Sciences, Austria and was focused on sharing theoretical approaches and practical experiences on the strategic development of regional universities. The trainers through specific examples discussed the issues such as: the role of regional universities in regional development, the levels of Internationalization, branding the cities and regions and supporting their competitiveness, practical and strategic approaches of collaborating with research organizations and industries.

The aim of the project RURD is to extend the role of regional higher educational institutions as a basis for regional development. Also, to increase cooperation between universities and local government authorities to increase their capacity and enhance specification of each region. Furthermore, to develop mission, vision and strategic development plans for regional universities and to make Georgian regional HEIs more relevant to the communities and regions they are located.