The Ivane Javakhishvili International Scientific Prize 2014 was awarded to famous Kartvelologist and linguist, Prof. Dr. Heinz Fähnrich from the University of Jena for his special contribution to Kartvelian studies. The relevant decision was made by the members of the TSU Prize Committee.
On initiative of TSU Rector, Academician Vladimer Papava, on December 26, 2013 the Tbilisi State University announced a call for Ivane Javakhishvili International Scientific Prize for scientific papers of international significance created in Kartvelian studies. Two candidates were nominated.
A solemn awarding ceremony will be held in April. The winner will receive the Ivane Javakhishvili International Scientific Prize and GEL 20 000.
German linguist, Prof. Dr. Heinz Fähnrich is a famous Kartvelologist and Caucasiologist. In 1971 he defended his thesis at TSU; he has been elected as a foreign member of the Georgian Academy of Sciences. Prof. Fähnrich is a founder and editor of a journal Georgika.
For years Heinz Fähnrich led the Department of Caucasian, particularly Kartvelian studies at the University of Jena. He is still trying his best to popularize the Georgian language and culture in Germany. His books cover almost all the spheres of Georgian culture. Prof. Fähnrich has published in German several tens of monographs dedicated to the history of Georgian literature, Georgian history, Georgian mythology, as well as Georgian historical and cultural monuments.
His work is especially fruitful in studying the Kartvelian and Caucasian languages. The spheres of his research involve grammar of the old and new Georgian language. Among his fundamental works there are: Georgian Language; Old Georgian – German Dictionary (co-author Prof. Zurab Sarjveladze); Etymological Dictionary of the Kartvelian Languages (co-author Prof. Zurab Sarjveladze); as well as German translations of many Georgian literary monuments, etc.
The prize for special contribution to Kartvelian studies is awarded biennially.
