HIGHER EDUCATION AND ITS ROLE IN REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

In the present, the role of universities has evolved from their traditional field - education and research - to more active participation in regional development processes. The article deals with the contribution of the higher education institutions to the development of the regions. The new context of global financial crisis and climate changes needs global approach. Higher education institutions need to engage in external collaboration to promote social impact of innovations, transfer of knowledge and increase the quality of education. Universities are also becoming important actors in regional innovation system. Today the regional authorities, the business and the people expect the universities’ participation in applied develoment.