On July 7–10, 2025, Professor Zviad Kirtava, Head of the Program at the Caucasus School of Medicine, Caucasus University, delivered a presentation at the 10th International Conference on Behavioral Addictions (ICBA-2025) held in Nantes, France.

The halls buzzed with energy as over 400 participants—experts and emerging talents from all corners of the globe—came together for this pivotal event, united by a common purpose: to unravel the complexities of digital-age challenges such as problematic Internet and social media use, online gambling, gaming, shopping addictions, cyberbullying, and smartphone dependency.

There was a palpable sense of optimism as we tackled one of the 21st century’s most urgent dilemmas: how to restore balance, empower our youth, and rekindle the pure joy of real-world connection, even as technology pervades our lives. The conference was a vivid reminder that, when passionate minds unite, we can transform overwhelming challenges into opportunities for growth, healing, and lasting human fulfillment.

“I was honored to present the very first Georgian pilot study on problematic Internet use and its various manifestations among young students in Tbilisi - conducted at Caucasus University and the International Black Sea University. Buoyed by the inspiring exchange at ICBA-2025, we are eager to broaden this research to include additional groups of adolescents and young adults, inviting participation from more universities and colleges across the country. Our ambition is to secure both national and international funding, forging new partnerships and expanding our understanding of digital challenges in the lives of Georgia’s youth”.