Department of Rural Development and Vocational Development

The Department of Rural Development and Vocational Education at GIPA was established in 2005, and the main role in its formation is attributed to the programs implemented by the US Department of Agriculture, the European Commission and the Millennium Challenge Account - Georgia.

The department's scope of activity encompasses the following areas:

- Vocational education, training, and retraining;

- Data-driven research, analytics, and consulting;

- Rural development, sustainable development, agriculture, animal health, food safety, agribusiness, local development, governance, and related fields;

- Occupational safety;

- Environmental protection;

- Renewable energy and energy efficiency.

The department is committed to introducing and executing innovative, employment-oriented, competitive vocational educational programs, adopting international best practices, attracting leading specialists in the field, and engaging them in the vocational education process. Additionally, it aims to implement short- and medium-term certified courses, facilitate career development, and enhance the employability of vocational education students.

Regarding rural development, our department seeks to disseminate modern knowledge and best practices, enhance knowledge and skills, expand existing opportunities, and promote employment. We endeavour to support institutional development, advocate for local governance and policies conducive to rural development, strengthen agricultural extension services, and foster sustainable socio-economic development in conflict-affected regions and among ethnic minorities. Furthermore, we are dedicated to encouraging the participation of women and youth in these initiatives.

The department spearheads a multitude of educational, research, socio-economic, and environmental projects at both central and local levels. We maintain collaborative relationships with local and international educational institutions, private sector entities, governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations, and national and international donor agencies.