Dr. (H.C) Irene Khajalia
Honorary Doctorate in Education
Irene Khajalia has defied limitations facing disabled individuals, turning challenges into tangible achievements. Excelling in school and later Linguistic University, she continued her education, earning top honours and completing programmes in Law and PR Schools; Leadership and Management at Harvard Business School followed shortly by a PhD from the Georgian National Academy of Science, and a stint as a life coach. Ms Khajalia’s professional journey is equally impressive, marked by her diverse roles as a translator for prominent entities such as the Government Administration, US Embassy, EBRD, and Forbes Magazine Georgia. Her passion for civic engagement led her to the Council of Europe’s Political School in Strasbourg. She broke new ground as the first disabled person to establish an educational centre in Georgia.
Receiving recognition from peers and earning public respect, Dr. Khajalia founded English Language Centre ETI-2000 to pass her knowledge and skills to younger generations in post-Soviet Georgia. ETI-2000 was first ever language centre in the region achieving the British Council’s exclusive Gold Partner status and Cambridge Assessment English Qualification. The International Swiss Rating Association, and National Business Association of Georgia named the Centre a ‘Leader of the Branch’ for five times, even going so far as to awarding ETI-2000 with ‘The Permanent Leader’ prize. For her outstanding achievements and distinguished service Dr. Khajalia received a special award for ‘Contribution to Education’ by Ministry of Education and Chamber of Commerce of Ajara Region.
Combining vast experience in language education, coaching, and public relations, Dr. Irene Khajalia joined ETI Holding as Academic Principal, aiming to provide unique training solutions and greater choices for students. Emphasizing common human values, she advocates for educational exchange programmes to shape young global citizens and leaders. This is the key to global success and certainly a ground for opening international borders. The centre has placed dozens of excellent alumni across various fields of study at prestigious universities, colleges, and schools mostly in Britain, the USA, and Europe.
Diverse attitudes, academic and personal development, involvement in social activities, and fulfilling modern world standards make Dr. Khajalia a value member of the global community. She has recently been offered a position in the International Directorate of the World Women’s Club, and also nominated as the WEDO Ambassador to Georgia. These roles further attest to her commitment to advancing women’s empowerment and fostering positive change on an international scale.
Dr. Irene Khajalia’s journey from overcoming societal barriers to becoming a global education leader is an inspiring testament to her resilience and dedication. Her impact on the educational landscape in Georgia and beyond showcases the transformative power of education in breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for all.