Caring for the professional development of employees in the field of education
The professional development of employees in the field of education is an essential condition for improving the quality of teaching and learning, for creating a strong and effective trade union.
Along with protecting the labor, socio-economic, and legal rights of employees and advocating for their professional interests, the Free Trade Union of Teachers and Scientists of Georgia cares about promoting the professional development of its members.
Caring for professional development is a prerequisite for creating a decent working environment and conditions for employees, raising the status of teachers, and ensuring quality education.
Since 2007, with the help of international and European partners, the EEPE has been implementing international projects with the aim of introducing best practices and experience:
2007-2011 – International Exchange Project for Civic Education Teachers – “Mosaic 2” (AFT);
2009-2013 – International-Education Program “Citizens’ Voices – Bank for Democratic Movements” (AFT);
2012-2014 – “Teachers for the Promotion of a Culture of Human Rights” (EI-AFT);
2014-2016 – “EEPE for the Promotion of a Culture of Human Rights” (EU);
Since 2017, the Danish National Trade Union of Higher Education (GL) has been implementing a cooperation and partnership project: “Developing Education Policy Advocacy Capabilities and Democratic School Governance Skills in Georgia, in Cooperation with the Teachers’ Trade Union.”
A Strong Trade Union for Sustainable Development of the Education System
Ø In February 2015, in order to develop and discuss the draft of the new scheme “On the Beginning of Teacher Activity, Professional Development and Career Advancement”, the Georgian Government decreed the function/composition of the State Commission, where the interests of teachers were represented by the President of the Georgian Trade Union of Teachers, Maia Kobakhidze.
Based on the in-depth analysis of the demands of members, education experts and the Legal Department, the Georgian Trade Union of Teachers monitors the progress of the reform and advocates for the interests of employees.
In order to improve the qualifications of ESFTUG members, promote career advancement and development, the SPMTP A.A.I.P., “Professional Development Center for Employees in Educational Institutions”, has been operating since November 2014, which is staffed by a group of highly qualified education experts and trainers. Training modules are created taking into account the needs of employees of the preschool and general education system.