The article discusses the transformation of Georgia's higher education system, impelled by the necessity to adjust to digital learning. Having traditionally been a system without a strong online education framework, huge divides in infrastructure, digital literacy, and quality assurance formed part of the big challenges. These problems were especially acute in rural areas, where students were deprived of resources and technology, further stratifying inequalities in education. The emergency measures taken during the transition to online education had brought out systemic weaknesses, pointing to a deep need for long-term solutions.

In response, the higher education institutions in Georgia implemented various initiatives concerning capacity building and improving digital competencies, upgraded their infrastructure for online learning, and developed quality assurance frameworks aligned with international standards.

A centerpiece of these reforms is the Erasmus+ funded PRODIGE project, grouping Georgian universities, international partners, and policy-makers. The project will pilot strategies in digital education, draw from global best practices, and integrate frameworks like DigCompOrg and DigCompEdu to raise competencies and modernize infrastructure and establish robust benchmarks for quality in education. The study epitomizes the resilience of the faculty and students who have rapidly adapted through peer learning and international collaborations, underlining the critical role of strategic planning and international partnerships in driving sustainable digital transformation. Equally, Georgia's higher education system has been shown to become more inclusive and competitive, with equitable access to high-quality digital learning opportunities. Looking ahead, these initiatives will place Georgia's higher education institutions at the forefront of the global academic arena through innovation, increased access, and the needs of a fast-changing education sector. This study will point out the necessity for coordinated action and long-term planning in realization of a transformational and sustainable digital education system.

Keywords: Digital transformation, higher education, online education, quality assurance, PRODIGE project.