On
June 19, 2026, Sokhumi State University (SSU) opened an auditorium named after
Academician Nodar Chitanava and awarded him the SSU Medal for his outstanding
contributions to statehood, science, and education. The ceremony followed a
presentation by N. Chitanava on Georgia's socio-economic development, regional
growth, and sustainable economic policy.
SSU
Rector Prof. Tea Jugeli, Head of Administration Prof. Davit Jalaghonia, and TSU
Professor Teimuraz Shengelia welcomed the academician, praising his lifelong
dedication and service to the country.
Nodar
Chitanava was born on March 10, 1936, in Tchkaduashi, Zugdidi district. He
graduated from Tsalenjikha Secondary School with a silver medal, earned a civil
engineering degree from the Georgian Polytechnic Institute, and later received
a Doctor of Economic Sciences degree.
As
a professor and full member of the Academy of Agricultural Sciences of Georgia,
his research focuses on economic transformation, agricultural development, and
regional sustainability.
His
extensive career includes roles as Minister of Agriculture, Chairman of the
Council of Ministers of Georgia, and Soviet deputy. Notably, on April 9, 1991,
he signed the Act of Restoration of State Independence of Georgia. Alongside
public service, he authored 137 scientific papers and 15 monographs, and
mentored 29 doctoral students.
His
philosophy is defined as "economic patriotism"—the belief that an
economy is a system of responsibility toward society, tradition, and future
generations. Having served through both the Soviet era and independent Georgia,
colleagues regard him as a "living archive" of state thinking and a
bridge between eras.
SSU
considers it a profound honor to name an auditorium after Academician Tchitanava,
celebrating a lifetime dedicated to knowledge and country.
We
congratulate Academician Nodar Tchitanava on this recognition and wish him
health, longevity, and continued success.