Regional Interaction and Effects of Universities: Introduction to the Special Issue

摘要

In recent years universities have changed with regard to their character, organization and tasks they are expected to fulfil (Blume et al. 2017), not only in continental Europe, but also around the world. Organization has become more centralized and more oriented towards efficiency and excellence. In the context of these changes, universities are nowadays expected to provide more than scientific publications and graduates. Their so-called 'third mission' is based on widespread interaction with the economy, policy makers, and the wider society. This also includes a stronger interaction within the region. As a consequence, an increasing contribution to innovation, economic growth, structural change, societal development, and the attraction of people is expected at the regional level.