In the ever-evolving world of education, innovation and leadership play a crucial role in shaping the future of learning. Dr Nina Chikvashvili stands out as a transformative figure in the education sector, redefining private schooling in Georgia and setting new standards for academic excellence. As the founder and driving force behind Progress Schools, she has dedicated her career to ensuring that students receive a holistic, high-quality education that combines both national and international curricula. With a deep commitment to pedagogical advancements, leadership, and global education trends, Ms Chikvashvili has positioned herself as one of the most influential figures in modern education.
Early Life and Motivation
Born in Georgia, Nina Chikvashvili grew up in a time when the Soviet educational system emphasized rigid structures and standardized learning. From an early age, she recognized the importance of alternative learning environments and the need for a more dynamic and student-centered approach to education. Her personal experiences and passion for academic development led her to pursue a career in teaching.
After completing her studies, she began her professional journey as an English teacher, where she introduced innovative teaching methods beyond traditional memorization techniques. She focused on extracurricular activities, interactive learning, and career-oriented education, which gained popularity among students and parents. This period of hands-on teaching experience solidified her belief that education should not only provide knowledge but also prepare students for real-life challenges.
Founding Progress Schools: A New Educational Model
Understanding the limitations of traditional education, Dr Chikvashvili took a bold step in founding Progress Schools, one of the first private educational institutions in Georgia. Establishing a private school in a transitioning economy came with challenges, but she remained committed to her vision. Her first major financial investment – a personal loan – was used to convert an abandoned building into a modern and progressive educational institution.
Starting with just 50 students, the school quickly gained a reputation for academic rigor, student-centered learning, and global integration. Over the years, Progress Schools expanded to multiple locations, including Batumi, Tbilisi and Kutaisi, and currently educate over 2,500 students with a faculty of 500 professionals.
Progress Schools offer a dual diploma program accredited by COGNIA, allowing students to earn both Georgian and international diplomas. Advanced Placement (AP) courses enable students to gain university credits before graduation. The institution has built global partnerships with universities in the USA, UK, Germany, and Belgium, supporting international exchange programs.
Students benefit from psychometric testing and career counseling to guide them in choosing their professional paths. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on STEM education, integrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. The schools also feature state-of-the-art innovation centers and learning labs, ensuring students receive hands-on training in the latest educational technologies.
Achievements and Leadership
Ms Nina Chikvashvili’s contributions to education extend beyond her institutions. She has played an active role in educational reform, teacher training, and leadership development on national and international levels. Her dedication to lifelong learning is reflected in her academic achievements, including a PhD in Education Administration and Dr. Nina has master degree – MBA – master of Business of Management ( Grenoble, France). She is also a Certified International Education Counselor from New York University and a scholarship recipient at Montana State University (USA).
Her leadership extends to global education and business organizations. She serves as Co-Chair at SITE USA, focusing on integrating technology in education. She is a member of Women 4 Tomorrow, supporting female entrepreneurs and leaders. Additionally, she is an educational expert at the World Peace Summit, where she advocates for education as a tool for conflict resolution and global peace.
Her entrepreneurial and educational achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has been recognized by Forbes as one of the 45 most influential entrepreneurs globally, highlighting her ability to balance business acumen with educational innovation.
Future Vision: Expanding the Progress Legacy
Dr Chikvashvili’s vision for the future is ambitious and structured. She aims to expand Progress Schools beyond Georgia, introducing a franchise-based model that will allow educational leaders to replicate the high standards and methodologies of Progress Schools in new markets.
A €10 million state-of-the-art campus in Dighomi, is set to open in 2025. This facility will integrate artificial intelligence in education, robotics training, and emotional intelligence programs. A Professional College System will launch in Kutaisi and Batumi, offering students both academic knowledge and practical vocational training. Additionally, the institution plans further collaborations with leading global universities to provide students with access to the latest academic research and career pathways.
By focusing on technology-driven education, entrepreneurship training, and personalized learning experiences, Ms Nina Chikvashvili continues to push the boundaries of traditional education. Her emphasis on lifelong learning, career readiness, and leadership development ensures that students graduate not only with academic qualifications but also with the skills necessary for success in the modern workforce.
The Role of Women in Educational Leadership
As a successful female entrepreneur and educator, Dr Chikvashvili advocates for women’s leadership in education. She believes that empowering female educators and business leaders creates more inclusive and effective learning environments. Through her involvement in women’s business networks and mentorship programs, she actively supports and inspires the next generation of female leaders in education and beyond.
Ms Nina Chikvashvili’s story is one of determination, resilience, and innovation. From a passionate educator to a globally recognized entrepreneur, she has proven that education is not just about acquiring knowledge but about transforming lives. Her ability to blend traditional learning with modern methodologies, foster international collaborations, and empower students and educators sets her apart as a visionary leader in education.
Her guiding principle, "Step by Step Towards Progress," encapsulates her lifelong mission – ensuring that every student, teacher, and educational institution she touches moves forward in their pursuit of knowledge and excellence.