Representatives from the Catholic University of Applied Sciences in Cologne Visit Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani University

From May 13 to 15, 2025, Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani University hosted a delegation from the Catholic University of Cologne (KaTho) with the aim of initiating institutional cooperation. The delegation included the Chancellor of the Catholic University of Cologne, Mr. Bernward Robrecht, and the Head of the International Relations Office, Ms. Ellen Hoffmann.

During the visit, the guests held a series of formal meetings with the senior management of Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani University, where they discussed the objectives of the visit as well as their previous experience with similar collaborative projects. Representing Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani University at the meeting were Rector Fr. Akaki Chelidze, Chancellor Ms. Natia Sheqiladze, and Chairman of the Advisory Board Mr. Vaj Vardidze. The meeting was also attended by Ms. Shorena Parunashvili, International Relations Manager.

Following their engagement with senior leadership, the German delegation met with representatives from the university’s administrative departments. These meetings aimed to provide the guests with a closer understanding of the university’s internal structure and operations, and to identify shared needs and opportunities for future collaboration.

In addition, the delegation from the Catholic University of Cologne paid a visit to the Apostolic Nunciature in Georgia, where they met with the Apostolic Nuncio, H.E. Archbishop Ante Jozić. The Nuncio expressed his gratitude to the German guests for their visit and for their support of Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani University as a Catholic institution.

As a result of the visit, both universities agreed to implement a joint project involving reciprocal one-week visits, during which German and Georgian colleagues will exchange knowledge and professional experiences. This project is scheduled to take place during the 2025–2026 academic year.

Furthermore, the two parties discussed potential collaboration within the framework of the Erasmus+ KA171 project, including opportunities for student exchange programs.