The Election Administration has introduced a new educational initiative, the Election Media School, initially launched in a pilot phase to enhance the electoral environment and increase awareness among journalism students on election-related issues, the Central Election Commission (CEC) reported.

According to the CEC, Giorgi Kalandarishvili, Chairman of the Central Election Commission, inaugurated the Election Media School and highlighted that this new project offers aspiring journalists the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge about the electoral process, as well as modern standards and legislative frameworks governing election coverage.

The CEC chair emphasised that the initiative reaffirms the institution’s commitment and strategic vision towards youth engagement and awareness.

“The election administration has launched another innovative educational project. This platform provides future journalists with essential knowledge about elections and election reporting, ensuring they are equipped to objectively cover various electoral issues and deliver verified information to voters. The Election Media School is currently in its pilot phase, allowing us to refine its content, optimise logistics, and expand the programme in the future,” stated Kalandarishvili.

Giorgi Sharabidze, Deputy Chairman of the Central Election Commission, addressed the participants, underscoring the significance of the training course in fostering a healthier electoral environment. Natia Ioseliani, spokesperson for the Central Election Commission, moderated the meeting and provided detailed information about the project.

Giorgi Sharabidze delivered the inaugural lecture, discussing the history of Georgian elections and the guiding principles of democratic electoral processes. Throughout the programme, participants will share insights and experiences during meetings, discussions with CEC leaders and experts, and with invited specialists. Over the two-week course, students will explore key topics such as electoral systems and models of election administration, electronic voting, voting procedures, creating an inclusive electoral environment, the media’s role in elections, international practices, media rights and responsibilities, Georgian legislation and practices, disinformation as a global challenge, and strategies for addressing misinformation and shaping public opinion.

The training combines both theoretical and practical components.

“This project is being implemented within the framework of the existing memorandum between the CEC and the Youth Agency, as well as agreements signed between the CEC Training Centre and higher education institutions,” the CEC stated.