Позитивные изменения. Том 3, № 3 (2023). Positive changes. Volume 3, Issue 3 (2023)

The influence of universities on urban development has also been a subject of significant research interest among Russian-speaking scholars in the reviewed period (Bocharova, 2021; Chuikina, Klyuev, Egorova, Petrova & Efremova, 2021; Kasatkina, 2022). Authors note several aspects of university engagement with cities and regions. Firstly, universities can offer educational programs tailored to meet local labor market demands, aiding graduates in successful adaptation and employment within the region. Secondly, universities often serve as research hubs addressing local issues. They conduct research in economics, social sciences, healthcare, and other fields directly impacting city and regional development. Additionally, universities can collaborate with local businesses and organizations, fostering innovation and business growth. They can participate in joint projects and research, provide student internships, and offer consultancy services.

Overall, this collaborative relationship between universities and cities/regions is mutually beneficial, fostering knowledge development, economic growth, and improved quality of life in the region.

TREND 4: THE GLOBAL TRANSFORMATION OF HIGHER EDUCATION — INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Researchers acknowledge significant shifts in higher education, especially within an ever-evolving socio-economic context. One major trend is the transition from the traditional university model to an entrepreneurial one that places emphasis on nurturing entrepreneurial skills and capabilities in students. Such university activities may encompass the creation of programs and courses aimed at preparing future entrepreneurs and innovators, establishing incubation centers to support startups, and organizing events to cultivate entrepreneurial skills and innovative thinking (Yurevich, 2021; Afanasyeva, 2021; Shapovalov, Igropulo, Arutyunyan & Minkina, 2021; Novikova, 2022; Namkhanova, 2022).

A key hallmark of entrepreneurial universities is their active engagement with external resources, including financial, intellectual, commercial assets, as well as practical initiatives. An integral facet of this trend is the formulation of a marketing strategy based on the university’s third mission, which includes developing strategies to attract students, collaborating with the business community and government agencies, partnering with innovative startups, and fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurial ventures within the university (Leukhova & Korchagina, 2021; Bondarenko, 2022; Pervukhina, 2022).

Several studies have delved into additional university objectives, such as innovative mentoring practices and cultivating students’ competencies in social entrepreneurship, among others (Pastukhova, Lepiavsky, Perepelkin & Fomin, 2021).

To better meet the needs of society and the job market, universities must rethink traditional practices and methods. However, even amid transformation, it remains crucial to uphold academic standards and principles ensuring the quality and reliability of education, including academic integrity, ethical considerations, and the protection of academic freedom.

In essence, global trends and transformations in higher education reflect a commitment to adapting to contemporary challenges and societal needs, thereby creating a more dynamic, flexible, and socially oriented educational system.

TREND 5: DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Researchers highlight that digital technologies enable universities to offer online courses and distance learning, expanding the accessibility of education and providing students with the flexibility to learn from anywhere in the world. This promotes education and skills development in various regions (Andronnikova, 2022; Voevodina, 2022; Martynov, 2022).

The “digital divide” in gadget proficiency is considered a form of educational risk, particularly for socially vulnerable populations. Notably, universities can serve as agents of digital transformation, facilitating the inclusion of at-risk groups in the digital society. The primary focus of universities shifts towards developing accessible online education, mass open educational courses, and training for digital professions (Voevodina, 2022).

In the realm of scientific research, digital technologies offer more efficient tools for data collection and analysis, modeling and simulating complex processes, and fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange among peers. These advancements drive innovation, propel scientific discoveries, and contribute to sustainable development across various domains.