Vice-Rector for International Cooperation, Tatia Dolidze, along with the Manager of the International Relations Office at European University, Mariam Mania, paid a productive working visit to the IGS Campus in Lyon, France. This visit was part of the Erasmus+ training mobility program and marked a significant milestone in strengthening the collaboration between IGS Group France and European University, Georgia.
During the visit, fruitful meetings were held with Valida Mechri, the Head of the International Department for Mobilities, Projects, and Partnerships, and Sophie Lome, the International Relations & Erasmus+ Coordinator of Groupe IGS Lyon.
Substantial achievements were accomplished, as both parties agreed to engage in internationalization activities, including student and staff mobilities, as well as student traineeship placements. European University students and staff will have the opportunity to study and teach, respectively, and/or undertake traineeships at the three campuses of the IGS group in France: Paris, Toulouse, and Lyon. Similarly, students and staff from IGS group will be welcomed at European University.
Moreover, a special scheme was developed to facilitate enhanced mobility options for students with fewer opportunities. This scheme aims to provide special quotas and additional funding to support vulnerable groups studying at European University. In a reciprocal gesture, European University has pledged to welcome students with disabilities from France. The partners lauded European University’s institutional preparedness and applauded its efforts to ensure a supportive environment for students with disabilities, evidenced by the extensive adaptations implemented by European University, such as wheelchair ramps, handrails on stairs, accessible toilets, wide doors, anti-slip strips, specialized elevators with braille language signs, and a designated parking area for disabled individuals. These measures exemplify European University’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring an accommodating space for all students.
Furthermore, Vice Rector Tatia Dolidze, who also serves as the Head of the International Relations Bachelor’s Program at European University, had the opportunity to evaluate the working conditions of her student, Beka Geldiashvili, currently undertaking a traineeship at the IGS Office in Lyon. Partners provided positive feedback on the professionalism demonstrated by the student during the internship, affirming that the traineeship placements offered by IGS Group for European University students will continue and expand.
In July of this year, a reciprocal visit by colleagues from the IGS Group to European University is scheduled. During this visit, partners will have the opportunity to explore the university’s facilities and infrastructure and meet other relevant academic and administrative personnel, further solidifying the already established partnership.
It is important to note that the IGS Group is a leading umbrella organization providing diverse educational solutions. With 200+ programs, 10 schools, 5 training centers, and 100+ partner universities worldwide, including European University, Georgia, they excel in delivering outstanding opportunities for 45 years already.
