HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS IN THE CONDITIONS OF KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY AND INDUSTRY 4.0 - POTENTIAL AND PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

The observed processes of globalization, internationalization and technological development presuppose the need for the strategic reorientation of a number of sectors in connection with their competitive positioning and development in the new conditions of the macroeconomic environment and the fourth industrial revolution. The changes inevitably affect higher education institutions - a key player in the processes related to the creation of knowledge and its transfer to the economy. There is a need to promote cooperation between science, education and business, which is seen as a key step in the transition to a knowledge economy, in line with the key priorities for economic development and competitiveness set out in the Europe 2020 Strategy. The main goal is to highlight the challenges facing HEIs, preceded by the emerging "new economic model" derived from Industry 4.0 and adaptation to the knowledge economy. A possible potential in the field is their strategic transformation from classical to research universities, with an equal focus on education and research.