Professional Development Day 2025

On January 25, 2025, as part of International Education Day, the Faculty of Education Sciences at East European University (EEU) hosted the second annual joint conference of education graduates, students, and employers – Professional Development Day 2025.

The conference aimed to facilitate the exchange of practical and research experiences among graduates, employers, and students, encourage joint involvement in scientific activities, identify key issues in the field of education, explore innovative solutions, and promote professional development. Additionally, the conference was dedicated to International Education Day.

The event was opened by the Rector of East European University, Professor Kakhaber Lazarashvili. Welcome speeches were delivered by Associate Professor Ketevan Aptarashvili, Dean of the Faculty of Education Sciences at EEU, and Professor Davit Sikharulidze, Head of the Department of Scientific Research and Development.

The keynote speaker at the conference was Professor Angela Scollan from the Department of Early Childhood Education at Middlesex University (UK) and Head of the Early Childhood Education Program at East European University.

As part of the event, an Employer Forum was held, featuring EEU’s partner educational institutions:

• Tbilisi Public School №11 – Director: Nino Jabanishvili, Presentation Topic: “Quality Management in General Educational Institutions”;
• Tbilisi Public School № 172 – Tamuna Zurabashvili, Presentation Topic: “More than a Grade: Innovative Approaches to Assessment”;
• Koral School – Ana Kintsurashvili, Presentation Topic: “The Role of Non-Formal Education in the School Community”;
• Tbilisi Public School № 114;
• American International School “Progress”;

During the event, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between East European University and the American International School “Progress“ enabling both parties to collaborate on pedagogical and administrative practices, educational research, and the organization of joint events based on shared interests

The event was attended by industry experts, EEU students, faculty, and invited guests. The conference was conducted in a panel discussion format, where participants exchanged views, ideas, findings, and practical experiences.

At the conclusion of the conference, certificates were awarded to all participants and speakers. Additionally, partner organizations received symbolic gifts and certificates of appreciation from the university.

The event was organized by East European University.

Conference Organizing Committee:

• Ketevan Aptarashvili – Associate Professor, Dean of the Faculty of Education Sciences, EEU (Chair of the Organizing Committee).
• Ani Kvelashvili – Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Education Sciences, EEU.
• Nino Latsoshvili – Head of the Financial and Material Resources Management Department, EEU.
• Mariam Liklikadze – Head of the Center for Continuing Education and Student Services, EEU.
• Ana Maisuradze – Specialist at the Center for Continuing Education and Student Services, EEU.
• Mariam Bukia – Master’s Student in Education Research and Administration, EEU.