GD Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated that canceling academic programs for foreign students would cause substantial losses to Georgia’s economy, budget, and employment levels.
According to him, foreign students contribute GEL1.2 billion to the Georgian economy annually, which results in approximately GEL 300 million flowing into the state budget each year.
“Georgia hosts 37,000 foreign students, the majority of whom are citizens of India. Seven percent come from Jordan, six percent from Israel, five percent from Sudan, and three percent each from Pakistan, the United Kingdom, and Egypt. On average, one foreign student pays GEL15,500 annually in tuition fees and spends an additional GEL 16,300 in the country. Altogether, foreign students contribute GEL 1.2 billion to the Georgian economy, meaning around GEL 300 million enters the state budget annually thanks to their presence.
Furthermore, their spending supports over 10,000 jobs in Georgia. Therefore, abolishing programs for foreign students would significantly impact the country’s economy, budget revenues, and employment. It should also be noted that students leave the country immediately after receiving their diplomas, meaning they pose no risk to Georgia’s demographic landscape,” the Prime Minister said.
The government recently set admission quotas for state universities. The Tbilisi State Medical University will accept 2,105 students this year, including those enrolling in foreign-language programs.
