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

Within the university environment, students encounter a mosaic of ideas, perspectives, and cultural values. Educational work aid students in shaping their own values, making independent decisions, and respecting diverse viewpoints.

In addition to the eight research trends delineated, three specific themes have also been identified. These themes, in our view, represent important discourse directions for the exploration of the third mission concept, distinct from the aforementioned trends.

TOPIC 1: ADVANCING CAREER NETWORKS AND CENTERS IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Researchers are devoting significant attention to the potential for inter-university networks and career centers to evolve, as well as their engagement with the student body. Universities are making substantial efforts to cultivate these networks and career centers to better equip students to meet the demands of the modern job market (Podshivalov & Alenkina, 2021).

According to experts, inter-university networks play a pivotal role in sharing information, experiences, and best practices among different academic institutions. They foster collaboration and interaction among students from various universities.

The interaction between these networks and career centers and their student audience carries substantial importance. Students gain access to valuable information about job openings, internships, events, and resources for honing their professional skills. Career centers offer support in career path selection, assistance with resume crafting, interview skill development, and even host job fairs.

This holistic approach aids budding professionals in better preparing for the job hunt after graduation, significantly boosting their prospects for a successful career. On the whole, the cultivation of networks and career centers in higher education institutions extends maximum support and guidance in their professional growth.

TOPIC 2: THE UNIVERSITY’S ROLE IN MULTICULTURAL REGIONS

In several articles, discussions revolve around the university’s engagement with diverse cultures and ethnicities (Vodenko & Chernykh, 2022).

Researchers contend that one of the primary missions of the university is to create an inclusive and multicultural environment for both students and faculty. This encompasses the development of educational programs that account for the rich tapestry of languages, traditions, religions, and cultures. Additionally, universities should offer diverse opportunities for intercultural exchange and cooperation.

A paramount aspect of the university’s social mission in a multicultural region is adopting a global perspective. Universities ought to prepare students for work in an international setting, training them in intercultural communication through the expansion of international study programs, fostering student and faculty exchanges with foreign institutions, and active involvement in international research ventures. Furthermore, the university’s mission in a multicultural region should encompass the creation and sustenance of a research environment that facilitates the exchange of knowledge among diverse cultural groups. Universities should proactively attract and support researchers from different countries and cultures.

As a result, a university situated in a multicultural region should aspire to cultivate an educational milieu wherein students acquire the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to actively participate in intercultural dialogue, collaboration, and the resolution of complex global challenges. This endeavor entails the implementation of a myriad of measures, innovation, and the continuous evolution of the university.

TOPIC 3: THE UNIVERSITY’S CONTRIBUTION TO THIRD SPACES

The concept of third space refers to environments where people can congregate freely, exchange ideas, partake in cultural and intellectual activities, and just relax. Universities hold the potential to serve as ideal venues for the creation of such spaces. Within higher education institutions, you can already find libraries, community research centers, teamwork spaces, and more. These facilities provide access not only to students and faculty but also to the local community.

The establishment of third spaces fosters a symbiotic relationship between the city and the university. Universities can create spaces such as student centers, libraries, coffee shops, or startup incubators to stimulate innovation, creativity, and social interaction (Chubarov & Rusakova, 2021).