The field of Educational Technology (EdTech) in Georgia is developing rapidly, yet it sits at the intersection of two highly regulated sectors: education and technology. EdTech companies must balance innovative approaches with strict legislative requirements. Key challenges involve protecting minors' personal data, authorizing educational programs, and adhering to distance learning standards. If a platform issues state-recognized certificates or diplomas, it requires authorization from the National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement (EQE). Additionally, selling online courses is subject to e-commerce and consumer rights legislation. This service helps EdTech startups and training centers build a legal and sustainable business model.
What does this service cover?
The EdTech compliance service includes:
- Educational Authorization/Accreditation: Consulting on whether your platform needs authorization. Preparing documents for the National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement.
- Data Protection (COPPA/GDPR equivalent): Developing policies for processing minors' data. Implementing parental consent mechanisms.
- Intellectual Property: Protecting copyrights and licensing for educational materials (videos, texts, code). Managing agreements with instructors.
- User Agreements: Drafting platform usage rules regulating student behavior, payments, and liabilities.
- E-Commerce: Handling online payments, return policies, and taxation (e.g., VAT on digital services).
Common Real-World Scenarios
Typical challenges for EdTech businesses:
- Online School: A company wants to launch a full online school issuing diplomas. Legislation on distance learning in general education is strict, requiring complex authorization.
- Children's Data: An app collects photos or voice recordings of children. Without informed parental consent, this leads to heavy fines from the Data Protection Service.
- Content Theft: Platform courses are leaked to pirate sites. Copyright protection mechanisms (DRM) and legal leverage are needed.
- Foreign Instructors: The platform uses foreign trainers. Tax issues arise (Reverse Charge VAT, Income Tax).
Georgian Legal Framework
The EdTech sector is regulated by the Law on General Education, the Law on Higher Education, and orders from the Minister of Education regarding distance learning rules. Data protection is governed by the Law on Personal Data Protection (with special attention to children's data). Intellectual property falls under the Law on Copyright and Adjoining Rights. Accreditation processes are overseen by the LEPL National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement (EQE).
Process: How does a specialist work?
The lawyer analyzes the business model: is it formal education (school/university) or informal (training center). For formal education, a lengthy authorization process begins. For informal education, the focus is on contracts, data protection, and copyright. The lawyer drafts "Terms of Use" and "Privacy Policy" specifically tailored to the educational process.
Why Legal.ge?
Education and technology form a complex combination from a legal perspective. On Legal.ge, you will find lawyers experienced in both educational law and the IT sector. We help fit innovative ideas into legal frameworks so you can focus on teaching while leaving legal risks to us.
Updated: ...