RMG’s Young Scientists Support Program
RMG continues to support quality education within the framework of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal #4. Over the years, the company has been running various non-formal education initiatives and student programs, it has now launched a new project aimed at supporting young scientists in the fields of mining and geology.
The presentation of the Young Scientists Support Program and the introduction of program participants took place at the company’s Tbilisi office. This first year, the RMG’s Young Scientists Award was granted to 15 young researchers, providing them with financial support for a year. Among the recipients are employees from the Georgian Technical University, the Institute of Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology, the Institute of Geology, the Caucasus Institute of Mineral Resources, the Institute of Geophysics, and the Mining Institute.
“I am delighted that our education initiatives have expanded beyond supporting schoolchildren and students to now fostering and encouraging young scientists. This is a timely and much-needed initiative. We work closely with the Georgian Technical University and all related research institutes of our field, and it is crucial that more young professionals choose to stay in these institutions and actively pursue scientific or research careers. I believe this program will encourage greater engagement and enthusiasm for scientific work,” – Joni Shubitidze, General Director of RMG.
In the beginning of 2025, RMG’s management invited sectoral higher education institutions and research institutes in Georgia to nominate outstanding scientific staff and researchers, under the age of 35, for the Young Scientists Award.
“We are noting RMG’s contributions to education, and we see how effectively it supports academic fields. This is not just a social project, but rather a great deal for our country. Supporting scientific research in Georgia today is a significant motivation for both young professionals, as well as our administration.
Our Scientific Council selected two nominees through an open competition. One award recipient is a PhD specializing in mineral enrichment, and has an extensive experience, while the other is a second-year Master's student. This recognition will be a great incentive for this student to successfully complete the thesis,” - Professor Nikoloz Chikhradze, Director of the Mining Institute.
“I started working at the Institute of Geophysics in 2013 and continue my research in the Earth Physics and Geomagnetism sector, focusing on earthquake data analysis and geophysical exploration.
Pursuing a scientific career, particularly in Earth sciences, is quite challenging in Georgia. That’s why the involvement of private companies and their support through initiatives like this, are incredibly important,” - Nino Kvavadze, a scientist in the Earth Physics and Geomagnetism sector of the Institute of Geophysics, and the Winner of RMG’s Young Scientists Support Program.
At the event, General Director of RMG Joni Shubitidze handed over a certificate of appreciation to Academician David Shengelia for his exceptional contribution to the field of geology. Shengelia continues his active work at the Georgian National Academy of Sciences up to this time.
