news

Sokhumi State University Celebrated the 90th Anniversary of Zamo Zarkua and Opened a Lecture Hall in His Name

Sokhumi State University Celebrated the 90th Anniversary of Zamo Zarkua and Opened a Lecture Hall in His Name


The Faculty of Natural Sciences, Mathematics, Technologies, and Pharmacy at Sokhumi State University celebrated the 90th anniversary of the birth of the renowned scientist and educator, Zamo Zarkua (son of Jogo). As part of the anniversary events, a lecture hall named in his honor was ceremoniously opened. The event was dedicated to the memory of Zamo Zarkua, his many years of scientific and pedagogical activity, and his significant contributions to Sokhumi State University.

Over the years, Zamo Zarkua served as an educator and scientist in various academic and administrative positions. He held a Candidate of Biological Sciences degree, was a corresponding member of the Abkhazian Regional Academy of Sciences, Head of the Department of Biology, Dean of the Faculty of Biology and Geography at Abkhazian State University, and Head of the Biology Department at the Sokhumi Branch of Tbilisi State University.

His primary research area focused on the study of Coleoptera (beetles) in Abkhazia and Western Georgia. For his years of fruitful work and professional merit, Zamo Zarkua was awarded the "Veteran of Labor" medal, the USSR Higher School badge "for outstanding success in work," and an honorary diploma from the Supreme Council of the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia. Notably, he also demonstrated great civic dedication, participating in the struggle for the territorial integrity of Georgia as a veteran of the war and military forces.

The anniversary event was opened by the Dean of the Faculty, Associate Professor Nestan Kekelia, who spoke about Zamo Zarkua’s academic legacy and his impact on the university's history. The event was attended by Sokhumi State University's academic and administrative staff, faculty professors, invited guests, as well as Zamo Zarkua's friends and family.

Warm recollections were shared by Head of Administration Professor David Jalaghonia, Professors Zuar Lomtatidze, Melor Alphanidze, Merab Nachkebia, Doctor of Biology Jumber Khubutia, and other colleagues and loved ones. Speakers highlighted his professionalism, personal character, dedication to the university, and the scientific-pedagogical legacy he left for future generations.

The scientist's daughter, Marina Zarkua—an Associate Professor and Head of the Faculty's Quality Assurance Department at Sokhumi State University—expressed her gratitude to the university for honoring her father's memory and opening the dedicated lecture hall.

Zamo Zarkua’s name and contributions maintain a special place in the history of Sokhumi State University, serving as an enduring example of professional dedication, dignity, and civic responsibility for future generations.


Photo gallery