International Scientific Conference in Georgia

On April 27–28, 2026, Akaki Tsereteli State University hosted the International Scientific Conference “Smart Solutions in Urban and Rural Resilience”, organized within the framework of the Smart4Rural project.

The conference brought together scientists, researchers, local authorities, and project partners from Georgia, Romania, Moldova, and Türkiye, creating an important platform for international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and sharing innovative approaches to sustainable development.

The opening session of the conference was conducted with the participation of representatives of the Smart4Rural projectს’ Partners from Georgia, Moldova, and Türkiye, as well as scientists, researchers, and members of the academic community of Akaki Tsereteli State University.

The conference was hosted by Akaki Tsereteli State University and officially opened with a welcoming speech delivered by the Rector of the University, Shalva Kirtadze.

The participants of the conference were also welcomed by Genadi Balanchevadze, Mayor of Tskaltubo Municipality and representative of the Lead Partner organization of the Smart4Rural project.

A total of 50 scientific papers were presented during the conference. The main topics included environmental protection, sustainable development, waste management and recycling, circular economy, clean and renewable energy, climate change, digital technologies, education, awareness, and capacity building.

The conference programme included plenary sessions, four parallel thematic sessions, poster presentations, and online presentations delivered by researchers from Pakistan, Romania, and Georgia. In addition, current international projects implemented by Akaki Tsereteli State University under the Erasmus+ CBHE Programme were presented, including GreenEngine, LISS, GastroTour, Enricher-hubs, EU AGM, ETHICS, PRODIGE, and SECURE.

As part of the conference programme, participants visited the Kutaisi Composting Center, established in 2021 within the Waste Free Rivers project. During the visit, participants received detailed information about green waste composting practices in Kutaisi, applied technologies, and the role of the center in promoting sustainable waste management at the local level.

The conference successfully concluded by strengthening international scientific cooperation and creating new opportunities for joint research, partnership development, knowledge sharing, and innovative initiatives supporting green transition and resilient communities in the Black Sea Basin region.

The Conference Proceedings have been completed and printed.