“The study of the Chinese language is becoming increasingly popular among younger generations. For this reason, we have decided to introduce Chinese as a second language in schools. … Mutual trust creates opportunities for new generations to establish connections, cooperate, and act together on the international stage, including advancing shared political interests, which is ultimately in the interest of both countries.”
Statement by Georgia’s Minister of Education, Science, and Youth, Givi Mikhanadze, given to the Chinese media outlet China Daily on November 15, 2025.
In contemporary international politics, one of the most effective strategies used by major powers to influence the foreign policy orientation of smaller states is soft power. In this regard, the People’s Republic of China has emerged as a rapidly growing actor.
Civic IDEA is pleased to share a new report “From Strategic Partnership to the Present: China’s Expansion in Georgia’s Educational Space“ examining China’s growing influence in Georgia’s education sector.
The report explores how China uses education as a key soft power tool, including the promotion of the Chinese language, partnerships between universities, scholarship and exchange programs, and the involvement of technology companies such as Huawei.
Key Findings of the Research
The study conducted by Civic IDEA found that in 2024–2025:
- Nine memoranda and cooperation agreements were signed between Georgian and ChineseUniversities.
- Representatives of 12 Chinese educational institutions visited Georgian universities to establish partnerships and initiate cooperation.
- Georgian universities signed agreements with the following Chinese companies and organizations: Huawei, Zhogge Cultural Development, Belt and Road Georgia Business House, and Guangzhou Dajiang E-Commerce Co. Ltd.
- Under an agreement with Huawei, the company will establish Georgia’s first Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Academy and introduce “smart classrooms” in Georgian schools.
- Georgian students participated for the first time in Huawei’s educational initiative “Seeds for the Future.”
- The Chinese Embassy in Georgia actively promoted educational cooperation and the Chinese language. Within the framework of cooperation between Georgian universities and the embassy, joint academic events were organized.
- In 2024 and 2025, Georgian students and school pupils took part in the Chinese language competition “Chinese Bridge.”
- Georgian students participated in summer schools and youth camps in China.
- Chinese language instruction was offered in 15 schools in Tbilisi.
- A Confucius Institute will be established at the Georgian Technical University in cooperation with a Chinese university.
