Public Statement by Georgian Technical University

Georgian Technical University responds to the detention of Z.A., born in 1960, by officers of the Juvenile Affairs Main Division of the Tbilisi Police Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, on charges of rape of minors and other forms of sexual violence committed against them.

Georgian Technical University strictly condemns any act of violence, particularly when the matter concerns the possible violation of the rights of minors, and notes that such horrifying acts, by their very nature, contradict the fundamental principles of humanity, human compassion, and human relationships.

Georgian Technical University fully upholds the principle of the presumption of innocence and, pending the issuance of an impartial court verdict, expresses its full readiness to cooperate with the relevant law enforcement authorities to ensure a comprehensive, objective, and transparent investigation of the case.

The University confirms that Z.A., who was employed at the Faculty of Informatics and Control Systems, had his authority suspended immediately upon the initiation of legal proceedings, in parallel with the measures taken by the relevant agencies, and in accordance with the internal regulations of Georgian Technical University. At the same time, the University emphasizes that any form of violence, discrimination, or unethical conduct or actions within the university space is categorically unacceptable, as it fully contradicts both the University’s Code of Ethics, operational principles, and values, as well as the norms established and fundamentally recognized in academic and scientific environments. However, the University also notes that it is impossible to have complete information about the private life of each member of the university community (professor, scientist, administrative staff member, student).

The University once again emphasizes that the protection of human rights, safety, and the presumption of innocence is of the highest priority, and states that additional information will be provided to the public as appropriate, in full compliance with applicable legislation and ethical standards.