On September 17, Sokhumi State University marked the beginning of a new academic year with a ceremonial welcome for first-year students, a tradition upheld by the academic and administrative staff, along with senior students.

The event, inaugurated by the Rector, Professor Zurab Khonelidze, commenced with the Georgian national anthem. Professor Khonelidze extended his congratulations to the incoming students, providing insights into the university's mission and future plans. He emphasized, "The development strategy of Sokhumi State University, rooted in its unique mission, envisions not only delivering quality education but also reconnecting with its origins, returning to Sokhumi."

Notably, the ceremony was graced by the presence of Doctor of History and Professor Giorgi Anchabadze, the son of the first Rector of Sokhumi State University. In his speech, Professor Anchabadze highlighted the positive transformations within the university, stressed the importance of passing down values between generations, and expressed his earnest desire for this process to endure into the future.

Dignitaries of the highest diplomatic rank also attended the solemn ceremony, including His Excellency Pascal Meunier, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of France. Representatives from the Embassy of the United States of America, Christopher Davenport - Press and Information Attaché, and Kate Nath - Head of Foreign Affairs and Separatist Conflicts Political Unit, warmly welcomed the students to the commencement of their studies.