On July 9, 2021, within the framework of erasmus+ CBHE project RURD "Role of Universities in the Regional Development”, a meeting of the rectors of regional universities was held at Akaki Tsereteli State University. At the meeting, the rectors of 11 regional universities, LEPL – Akaki Tsereteli State University, 

LEPL- Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University, LEPL -Batumi Teachin University, LEPL -Batumi State Maritime Academy, LEPL – Shota Meskhia State Teaching University of Zugdidi, LEPL -Gori State Teaching University, LEPL -Iakob Gogebashvili Telavi State University, LEPL – Samtskhe-Javakheti State University, LEPL- Kutaisi International University,  LTD – Caucasus University, LTD- Kutaisi University signed a memorandum and established the Conference of rectors of regional universities to discuss issues and challenges specific to the region they are located in.

The signing ceremony took place on July 9 and was attended by the Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia, National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement and local authorities.

The aim of the project is to increase the role of Georgian regional higher educational institutions in the development of the regions in cooperation with the EU partners, to modernize their mission and strategic development plan, as well as to strengthen cooperation between universities and local authorities considering the specifics of each region. The project also involves 4 European partners from Spain, Austria, the Czech Republic and Lithuania.