SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
New Vision University contributes to building inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities through regional development initiatives, preservation of cultural heritage, and active community engagement. By investing in regional and sectoral development, supporting cultural institutions, and creating inclusive spaces for participation, NVU strengthens local identity and promotes sustainable social development.
Regional Development and Community Identity (Targets 11.a, 11.3)
New Vision University contributes to regional development and community identity through strategic investments that enhance local economic activity and social cohesion.
Support of FC Torpedo Kutaisi went beyond the traditional understanding of football club ownership. The University helped the club to reestablish its identity – researching its roots from the early 1921 and linking it with modern legacy, returning to values shared by founders of the club, and linking it to a sustainable future, strengthening the connection between the institution, the region, and its cultural and social heritage.
Economic activities around the club contributed to infrastructural development and job creation, and supported retainment of youth and workforce in the region.
Cultural Heritage Preservation (Target 11.4)
NVU contributes to safeguarding and promoting Georgian cultural heritage through investment in cultural institutions and creative industries.
Key Actions:
- Acquisition and development of Zarapkhana, one of the oldest jewelry brands in Georgia
- Support for preservation and popularization of Georgian craftsmanship and cultural identity
- Investment in cultural initiatives, including arts, music, and creative industries
NVU’s investment in Zarapkhana reflects its commitment to preserving and promoting Georgian cultural heritage. Beyond preservation, the initiative enables the use of cultural space for public engagement, including events such as cultural exhibitions and community gatherings, fostering interaction and cultural continuity.
Community Engagement and Inclusive Public Spaces (Target 11.7)
Since 2025, a gallery and exhibition spaces opened in Zarapkhana, featuring the oldest collections promoting Georgian cultural heritage, as well as exhibitions of different Georgian artists. The spaces are open to the public.
Institutional Action – New Vision Films
As part of its investment in arts and cultural heritage, New Vision University supports New Vision Films, a subsidiary company contributing to the development of the film industry in Georgia. The initiative strengthens the country’s creative sector and links cultural production with broader social, educational, and economic development.
SDG11 Targets Addressed
- 11.3 Enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and participatory planning
- 11.4 Protect and safeguard cultural and natural heritage
- 11.7 Provide access to safe and inclusive green and public spaces
- 11.a Strengthen positive links between urban, peri-urban and rural areas
Cross-Cutting Impact – Football as a Driver of Societal, Social, Economic and Regional Development
New Vision University positions football as an institutional strategic and research priority, considering it as a tool for societal transformation. It incorporates activities dedicated to youth development, regional engagement, and social transformation. Through initiatives such as establishing Inter Academy Georgia, purchasing and supporting regional FC Torpedo Kutaisi, a futsal club and research on football’s societal impact, NVU connects football with education, economic development, and community cohesion.
- Research initiative “Modernizing Society Through Football’s Soft Power” – exploring football’s role in community development, public behavior, and social transformation (SDGs 16 (16.7), 11 (11.3), 8 (8.2))
- Football infrastructure and campus facilities – supporting safe, inclusive, and accessible participation in sport (SDG 11 (11.7), SDG 3 (3.4))
- FC Torpedo Kutaisi – support for a regional football club strengthening community identity and regional development (SDG 11 (11.3), SDG 8 (8.2))
- Partnership with Martvili Football Academy – expanding access to sport and structured youth engagement in regional areas (SDG 10 (10.2, 10.3), SDG 4 (4.6), SDG 11 (11.3))