I have had the privilege of collaborating with Prof Dr Kakhaber Lazarashvil on several academic and professional training ventures, both at East European University in Tbilisi and Middlesex University in London. Our collaborative partnership has promoted Pre-school Education and Early Childhood philosophy in Higher Education and practice. For instance, Prof Dr Kakhaber Lazarashvil’s leadership was pivotal in developing educational provision and professional training bringing children’s rights and voices at the heart of professional dialogue, practice and training.
Working with him, I could appreciate Prof Dr Kakhaber Lazarashvil’s energetic drive towards pedagogical innovation, as well as his leadership in coordinating academics and professionals from a range of disciplines and national contexts, to create opportunities for interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary education. His generosity and diplomacy are traits of Prof Dr Kakhaber Lazarashvil’s professionalism in his role as the East European University Rector which I applaud. For instance, through Prof Dr Kakhaber Lazarashvil’s collegial approach, I had the opportunity to develop networks and relationships with UNICEF and the Georgian Ministry (Pre-school Education and Early Childhood) for the benefit of young children, and those working with and for them, both in Georgia and in England.
On a personal note, I would like to thank George for his friendship, hospitality and introduction to Georgian culture and people, facilitating rewarding friendships in addition to professional collaborations.