The Georgian Parliament has approved amendments to the Law on General Education in the first reading under an accelerated procedure, with 82 MPs voting in favor and 8 against. The draft was presented by Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Youth, Zviad Gabisonia.
Under the proposed changes, full general education will last no fewer than 11 and no more than 12 years and will be structured into three stages: six years of primary education (grades I–VI), three years of basic education (grades VII–IX), and two years of secondary education (grades X–XI), with an optional 12th year. Children will begin primary school at age six, provided they turn six by September 15.
The reform abolishes the textbook “gripping” (approval) system. Instead, the Ministry will create and publish official school textbooks and distribute them to schools free of charge for temporary use. The Ministry will also define general rules for students’ use of electronic communication devices, including mobile phones, in public schools.
Additional changes introduce mandatory school uniforms for primary-level students, with the design approved by the Ministry. The amendments also impose a three-year employment ban in general education institutions on teachers or staff dismissed for committing violence against a student.
