An online working meeting was held between the Vocational Education Centre of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University and the Valgamaa Vocational Training Centre (Estonia), titled “Freight Forwarding: European Standards, Digitalisation and Practical Management.” The meeting was dedicated to sharing experience within the framework of the vocational programme “Freight Forwarding” and to introducing international best practices in the field.

At the meeting held on March 31, the parties discussed in detail how the Estonian model integrates software solutions, simulation-based learning and practical assessment systems into the curriculum. They also identified best practices that could be incorporated into the teaching and learning process of the Vocational Education Centre of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University.

The Estonian side presented its educational approaches and experience, with particular emphasis on the digital tools and software platforms used in Estonia to support the development of students’ practical skills. The discussion covered the simulation of work processes within the learning environment and the ways in which software is integrated into the teaching process to closely replicate real working conditions. In addition, the parties addressed issues related to the organisation and monitoring of student internships, including how student engagement is recorded and verified during the placement period, the role of “practice diaries,” and the approaches used for data management, assessment and real-time monitoring. As noted by both sides, the two institutions apply similar approaches in this regard, which creates a strong foundation for effective experience sharing.

The meeting was attended by Levan Tsikaridze, Head of the Vocational Education Centre of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University; Ineza Vatsadze, Deputy Head of the Centre; Sopio Kakauridze, Quality Assurance Manager; Natia Gabrichidze, Internationalisation Manager; Lasha Chakvetadze, Head of the Freight Forwarding Programme; and teachers Shota Revishvili, Giorgi Babunashvili and Tamta Chakvetadze.

The Estonian side was represented by Ranert Lindt, Head of the Logistics Programme and teacher at the Valgamaa Vocational Training Centre.

At the meeting, the parties expressed their readiness to continue cooperation and planned future exchange visits in Estonia and Georgia to further strengthen collaboration and share experience.