Kutaisi International University denies reports of split with Munich Technical University

Kutaisi International University (KIU) in Georgia’s west has rejected reports claiming that the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is ending its strategic partnership with the Georgian institution.

In a statement released on Wednesday, KIU described as “disinformation” an article published on the platform tiflis24.substack.com alleging that TUM was terminating its co-operation with the University.

The University said the article contained unverified and inaccurate claims and amounted to a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and damage the reputation of both institutions’ international strategic partnership.

KIU also dismissed as “absolute disinformation” claims attributed in the article to its Vice-Rector, Professor Paata Turava, stating that the information was based solely on anonymous and unreliable sources and did not reflect the facts.

“We emphasise that the TUM remains KIU’s main strategic partner. We continue to co-operate closely to ensure the highest academic standards,” the statement said.

According to KIU, the strength and continuity of the institutional relationship is further underscored by the role of TUM’s Emeritus President, Wolfgang A. Herrmann, who continues to serve as Honorary President of KIU.

The University added that a high-level KIU delegation is expected to visit TUM in the near future to deepen co-operation and initiate new joint projects.

KIU stressed that all its undergraduate and master’s programmes are implemented under the direct supervision of European partners and in line with strict academic standards. The University said its curricula are fully aligned with European scientific benchmarks.

Beyond its partnership with TUM, KIU noted that it maintains active co-operation with leading higher education institutions in Germany and other countries, while the number of international academic staff employed at the university continues to grow.

The institution reaffirmed that its core mission is to establish and promote European educational standards in Georgia, prioritising students’ best interests and providing access to high-quality European higher education.

KIU also highlighted the success of its graduates, including their admission to leading global universities and employment in major international companies, as evidence of the quality of education it offers.

The University described itself as the largest charitable mega-project in Georgia’s modern history and the country’s only international public higher education institution established since independence.