IFES and six Georgian universities have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) establishing a new civic education course to be launched in the universities this fall.

The course, which will be offered to first- and second-year students, is intended to strengthen students’ understanding of civic responsibility and encourage their participation in public life. Named demokratia da mokalakeoba (democracy and citizenship), the class will cover government systems, human rights, civil society and civic participation. The curriculum consists of in-class instruction as well as complementary activities that enable the students to experience what they are learning.

Over 400 students in Tbilisi will have the opportunity to take the course. In the spring of 2012, the course will also be available at regional universities.

The signing of the MoU took place on July 21 at the Europe House in Tbilisi. It was presided over by (USAID) Mission Director Jonathan Conly. The six universities present were: Caucasus University, Georgian-American University, Georgian Technical University, Grigol Robakidze University, Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University and the University of Georgia.

The initiative is supported through USAID’s four-year Increased Trust in the Electoral Process (ITEP) program, which is implemented by IFES.  The ITEP program aims to increase the effectiveness of election administration, electoral legislation reform, voter enfranchisement, civil society involvement, and citizens’ participation and engagement in the electoral process in Georgia.