The program included a series of productive discussions at the GTU, which demonstrated the great potential for cooperation in the fields of mining, geotechnics and geosciences. A particular highlight of the visit was a festive banquet hosted by Rich Metals Group (RMG) to celebrate Georgia's National Day. This memorable evening reflected the warm hospitality and spirit of cooperation that prevailed throughout the visit.
Successful delegation visit to Georgia
The TUL delegation also took part in an important dialog with members of the Georgian Parliament's Education Committee, facilitated by Mr. Irakli, a former visitor to Leoben and now a sitting member of Parliament. The meeting underscored shared interests in fostering academic mobility and aligning with European higher education framework.
At the same time, the delegation held constructive talks with the Austrian Ambassador Dr. Robert Gerschner, both at the Austrian Embassy and on the GTU campus. These meetings further reinforced the commitment on both sides to deepen educational relations and institutional cooperation.
A particularly symbolic moment of the trip was the honoring of a TUL alumnus who founded the GTU's Faculty of Geology and Mining in 1911. In his honor, GTU renewed a gold-painted memorial statue on campus ahead of the delegation's arrival – highlighting the long-standing historical link between the two universities.
During the visit, a solid foundation was laid for future cooperation. This includes the development of microcredentials and short courses in geotechnics, laboratory safety and chemical engineering. Opportunities for Erasmus+ mobility and potential Key Action 107 funding (mobility of individuals outside Europe) were also explored. Other topics included recruitment initiatives for Georgian students wishing to study at the Technical University of Leoben and joint academic programs in fields such as AMRD, PROMISE and International Petroleum Engineering.
Also discussed was GTU's interest in joining the EURECA-PRO alliance as an associated partner, establishing a joint study hub in Tbilisi for students from Central and South Asia, and deepening cooperation with RMG through joint research, technical exchanges and site visits.
The Technical University of Leoben is looking forward to building a dynamic and lasting partnership with Georgian Technical University and its academic, diplomatic and industrial stakeholders. This visit marks the beginning of a meaningful collaboration grounded in shared values, mutual respect and a vision for global academic excellence.
Contact
Prof. Riyaz Kharrat
International Relations and European University
Technical University of Leoben
Phone.: +43 3842 402 – 3003
E-mail: riyaz.kharrat(at)unileoben.ac.at
