High school students of Mitispiri and Chkhakaura schools visited Vani Archaeological Museum-Nakalakari
On June 10, 2023, 39 senior students (grades 8-12) from the public schools of the villages of Mtispiri (Ozurgeti Municipality) and Chkhakaura (Chokhatauri Municipality) visited the Vani Archaeological Museum and the ancient city of Vani. This excursion was part of an educational project organized by Bakhvi HPP. The students learned about the history of the ancient city of Vani and the archaeological museum, viewed ancient artifacts preserved at the site, and received answers to all their questions of interest.
The discovery of the ancient city of Vani dates back to the 18th century. The Akhvlediani family, who lived in the area, often found gold in their settlement, leading to the start of archaeological excavations in Vani. These excavations began in 1947 and continue to this day. The ancient city dates back to the 8th-1st centuries BCE, and the museum houses various ancient artifacts from this period, including around 1,500 gold and 2,500 silver items.
After visiting the historically significant site, the excursion continued with a specially developed entertainment-educational program for the students.
Natia Shavadze, a tenth-grade student from Mtispiri Public School, shared her experience: "I have been actively participating in and attending the activities and meetings planned by Bakhvi HPP for the past two years. This process is very important to me because I found the foundation for my future profession thanks to Bakhvi HPP. I developed many necessary skills during the training sessions and envisioned myself in my future profession. I want to thank Bakhvi HPP, the trainers, Khatuna Iosava, Giorgi Berechikidze, and everyone who gave me the opportunity to develop. It is noteworthy that we had the best trainers. I am delighted that I had the opportunity to study environmental and renewable energy directions. Ecology should become my profession in the future." Mariam Beridze, an eleventh-grade student from Chkhakaura Public School, also shared her thoughts: "One of the most important days of my life is connected to this excursion, which was full of diverse sights. We visited the ancient city of Vani and the archaeological museum, where ancient items were displayed. We learned that some of these items are at least 30 centuries old. We heard stories about the construction structures of old temples, traditions, and art. It was truly amazing. Additionally, through the entertainment-educational program developed by the trainers, I had a great time with my peers. I was also happy to meet the students from Mtispiri School. I want to thank Bakhvi HPP and the trainers, Khatuna Iosava and Giorgi Berechikidze. Meeting them always brings new discoveries and excitement."
David Koberidze, Environmental, Social, and Governance Manager at Bakhvi HPP, commented on the program's success:
"The emotions and evaluations shared by the students indicate that the course was very effective and fruitful this year as well. The awareness of young people in the direction of environmental protection and renewable energies has significantly increased. During the training sessions, some senior students even chose their future professions, which is a source of pride for us. One of the main goals of Bakhvi HPP has been and continues to be supporting education in the region, spreading information about in-demand professions, and helping students make the right career choices. We are pleased that we have contributed to raising awareness in the public schools of Mtispiri and Chkhakaura.
None of this would have been possible without the trainers, Giorgi Berechikidze and Khatuna Iosava, for which I am very grateful. I also want to thank each student who attended these training sessions, as well as the teachers and school principals who continuously helped us carry out various activities in the schools. This annual summary excursion is yet another shining example of joint effort."
The training course is one of the educational projects under Bakhvi HPP's social program, established in the spring of 2021. The 2022-2023 academic year program started in September and covered both semesters. Meetings were held once a month at the public schools of Mtispiri and Chkhakaura. The project is intended for senior students (grades 9-12) and aims to raise awareness of environmental issues among young people, share knowledge about renewable energy sources, and provide information on professional orientation.