The Parliament has adopted, in its first reading and under an expedited procedure, amendments to the “General Education Law” aimed at expanding employment opportunities in schools.

The bill was supported by 75 votes and presented by Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Youth Tamar Makharashvili.

According to the proposed changes, new definitions will be introduced into legislation, including “teacher applicant,” “substitute special teacher,” “program teacher,” and “program special teacher.”

The amendments will allow individuals with vocational education in information and communication technologies (ICT) to work in schools under certain conditions, broadening the pool of eligible candidates.

Under the revised framework, any person holding at least a bachelor’s degree will be able to enter the teacher applicant program. However, if their qualification does not match the subject they intend to teach, they will be required to demonstrate subject-specific competency as a prerequisite for participation.

The law will also allow for the temporary replacement of absent special education teachers, increasing flexibility in school staffing.

In addition, individuals who have obtained teacher qualification through legally recognized pathways and have passed the special teacher examination will also be eligible to serve as special education teachers.

The reform introduces new categories of employment, including “program teacher” and “program special teacher,” who will be hired for fixed-term, targeted programs and may be transferred between schools when necessary.