Universities and Local Development

Ali Gunes

The University of New York Tirana

aligunes@unyt.edu.al

 

As a representative of the University of New York Tirana, a unique academic institution with its distinct perspective, I had the privilege of participating in “The 9th European Congress of Local Governments: The Future of the Idea of Decentralisation in a Changing World” organised by Foundation Institute for Eastern Studies and held on 4-5 March 2024 in the rural city of Mikolajki, Poland. The Congress, attended by nearly 2,500 guests from various sectors, was a “platform for exchanging views and a meeting place” for developing local governments and communities. In my paper titled “Education and Development: How do Universities Contribute to the Improvement of Local Governments and Communities?” I presented the unique perspective of the University of New York Tirana on the role of universities in local development.

Universities are not passive entities but active contributors to local development. As all the panellists, including myself, argued, universities actively engage with the surrounding communities, extending their influence far beyond the boundaries of their campuses. This active engagement can transform the economic, social, and cultural aspects of the communities they are situated through their active engagement and significant contribution across various dimensions.

Universities play a pivotal role in economic development as unique hubs of innovation and entrepreneurship. Their research and development activities generate new knowledge and foster a collaborative environment between local communities and universities. This environment results in the creation of intellectual property, patents, and spin-off companies. These enterprises, in turn, create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth by attracting investment and fostering industry-academia collaborations, as I have closely witnessed at the universities located in small cities. For example, universities can establish technology transfer offices to facilitate the commercialisation of research findings, thereby translating academic expertise into tangible economic benefits for the local community.

Besides, universities are not just educational institutions but also key players in shaping the future workforce. They offer diverse academic programs and vocational training, equipping students and local people with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the labour market demands. In addition, they collaborate with local industries to tailor their curricula to address specific skill shortages and emerging job sectors as the new construction of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) demands: that is, it is recommended to get opinions of the labour market about their needs and skills while preparing the curricula (the Bologna Process). Through internships, apprenticeships, and co-op programs, students gain real-world experience while providing a valuable workforce to local businesses. This symbiotic relationship between universities and the workforce contributes to a more skilled and competitive local labour force.

Moreover, all panelists and I argued that universities are not just academic institutions but integral parts of their surrounding communities. They actively engage with residents through outreach programs, public lectures, and cultural events, fostering a sense of inclusivity and intellectual exchange. Also, they leverage their academic expertise to address local challenges and tackle pressing issues such as public health, environmental sustainability, and urban development. Collaborative research projects involving faculty, students, and community stakeholders lead to co-creating knowledge and implementing solutions directly benefiting the local population.

Apart from what is discussed above, the physical presence of universities often drives infrastructure development and urban renewal in surrounding areas. For instance, investment in campus facilities, student housing, and services such as restaurants and shops can catalyse broader revitalisation efforts. Also, universities can function as anchors for innovation districts or research parks, attracting businesses and start-ups seeking proximity to academic expertise and resources. By leveraging their purchasing power and influence, universities can also promote sustainable development practices and contribute to creating vibrant, liveable communities.

As the creator of liveable communities, universities often become centres of healthcare innovation and medical research. They contribute to improving public health outcomes through initiatives such as community health clinics, wellness programs, and health education campaigns. Furthermore, universities research prevalent health issues, ranging from chronic diseases to mental health concerns, thereby informing public policy and healthcare practices at the local level. By promoting healthy lifestyles and providing access to medical resources, universities contribute to the community's overall well-being.

As discussed in the congress, it is undeniable that universities enrich local culture and heritage through artistic performances, exhibitions, and academic discourse. They serve as hubs of creativity and intellectual inquiry, fostering a climate of cultural diversity and artistic expression. Collaborations between universities and local arts organisations, museums, and historical societies promote cultural exchange and preserve shared heritage. Moreover, the presence of international students and faculty enhances cultural diversity and supports global understanding within the local community.

In conclusion, the panellists and I debated that universities vigorously promote local development, contributing to economic prosperity, social cohesion, and cultural enrichment. By leveraging their intellectual capital, physical resources, and institutional networks, universities can create lasting positive impacts on the communities they serve. Through collaborative partnerships and initiative-taking engagement, universities can fulfil their civic responsibility and become transformative agents of change at the local level.