**University Reverses Decision to Remove Student Status**
The Rector of Shota Rustaveli Theatre and Film State University, Giorgi Shalutashvili, has made a U-turn on his decision to revoke the student status of 10 protesters. The students had been demonstrating inside the university building for months in opposition to Georgia’s EU policy reversal.
**Students to Keep Their Status**
The university announced on social media that the Rector had decided not to apply the extreme disciplinary measure of status termination against the students, based on statements from students, teachers, and staff. This decision comes after widespread public criticism over the university’s handling of student protests.
**Protests Against University’s Handling**
On March 10, the university revoked the status of some students a day after they were fined GEL 5,000 (about $1,800) for demonstrating inside the university building. The decision was met with anger and frustration from the public, who accused the university of being too harsh.
**Meeting to Discuss Student Protests**
On March 12, the Rector appeared on Public Broadcaster’s live programme amid growing tensions over the student protests. However, students accused Shalutashvili of “lying” on air and demanded that a student representative also be given airtime. The parties agreed to meet again on Friday, March 14, to discuss the situation.
**Students Occupying University Since December**
The protesting students have occupied part of the university since December 17, in parallel with broader pro-European demonstrations in the country. Their protest was disrupted on March 9 when the administration ordered the foyer to be disinfected and directed students to a small space instead.
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