On
April 14–15, 2026, Sokhumi State University hosted a jubilee scientific
conference titled "Deda Ena (Mother Language) – 150," dedicated to the 150th anniversary of
Iakob Gogebashvili’s iconic Georgian primer.
Organized
by the University's Department of Scientific Research and Development, the
event opened with welcoming remarks from Professor Tea Jugeli, alongside
officials from the Supreme Council of the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia and
university deans.
The keynote address was delivered by Professor
Natela Maghlakelidze from Ilia State University, who discussed the historical
development of Georgian alphabet textbooks. Throughout the sessions,
participants explored the didactic and cultural significance of "Deda
Ena," highlighting its role as a cornerstone of national identity and
pedagogical thought. Discussions also covered modern linguistic challenges,
including the impact of digital communication on the Georgian language and the
status of Kartvelian studies.
As
part of the jubilee program, students and faculty visited the National Archives
of Georgia to view an exhibition of historical editions, complemented by a
presentation at the National Library. The conference saw broad participation
from local and international academic institutions, including Paris VIII
University and the Arnold Chikobava Institute of Linguistics.
The
second session of the conference was held on April 15 in the Zviad Gamsakhurdia
Conference Hall at Sokhumi State University’s second academic building. Chaired
by Professor Merab Nachkebia and Associate Professor Marina Turava, the session
featured a series of presentations and discussions. Key topics included the
future of the Georgian language, Kartvelological research abroad, linguistic
preservation and transformation, the impact of digital communication on
language, as well as research into Kartvelian languages and Sokhumi-specific
jargon.
The
series of events concluded on April 21 with a public lecture for school
students, further emphasizing the enduring legacy of Iakob Gogebashvili in
Georgia’s cultural and educational heritage.