On April 27, 2025, the youth center of the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi hosted the final gathering of the “Values-Based Education Clubs” project, a joint initiative of the Georgian Orthodox Church and the country’s Ministry of Education and Science. The project aims to instill Christian values in schoolchildren, fostering a deeper understanding of life, family, homeland, and society.

The event was attended by Metropolitan Shio (Mujiri) of Senaki and Chkhorotsku, the Patriarchal Locum Tenens of the Georgian Church, along with officials from the Ministry of Education, clergy members, and educators. The program included student presentations, choral performances, theatrical sketches, and discussions focused on moral and spiritual development.

In his address, Metropolitan Shio emphasized that “a harmonious upbringing is impossible without Christian values. This project helps children not only learn about faith, love, friendship, and patriotism, but also begin to live by these values.” He noted that over the past two years, around 1,000 students have joined the clubs, with growing interest nationwide.

The clubs, which operate in schools across the country, hold weekly meetings involving priests and teachers. Sessions use interactive methods such as discussions, field trips, performances, and cultural encounters. One key subproject, “Know Your City,” encourages students to explore churches, monasteries, museums, and monuments, fostering a deeper connection with Georgia’s Christian heritage.

Deputy Minister of Education Tamar Makharashvili highlighted the program’s importance for shaping responsible citizens. “We aim to nurture individuals who feel a sense of duty to themselves and to society. These clubs are a step in that direction,” she said.

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