Trends in Higher Education Development and the Third Mission of Universities

On September 18, 2024, the National Erasmus+ Office of Tajikistan, together with members of the HEREs and Tajik State University of Commerce, held an informational event on the topic “Global Trends in Higher Education Development and the Third Mission of Universities.”

The event brought together participants from all higher education institutions in Tajikistan, including regional institutions, at the level of vice-rectors and heads of international relations departments. This reflects a broad interest in the discussed topics and the commitment of educational organizations to active collaboration and integration into the international educational space.

The coordinator of the National Erasmus+ Office of Tajikistan, Mohtabonu Nakhzatdoda, opened the event with a speech highlighting the relevance of the topic and the importance of integrating the concept of the “third mission of universities” into the education system of the country. She noted that such integration contributes not only to the development of higher education but also to addressing social and economic issues.

In her speech, Mohtabonu Nakhzatdoda also emphasized the role of the European Union and the Erasmus+ program in supporting these initiatives. The European Union actively promotes the implementation of best practices and international experiences in educational institutions of Tajikistan, enabling universities to adapt to global requirements and effectively participate in the international educational landscape.

This support helps create new opportunities for collaboration between universities and various sectors of society, which, in turn, enhances the quality of education and prepares qualified specialists capable of meeting the challenges of modernity.

The event was also attended by guests from international organizations, including Senad Kamenica, an advisor on public information from the OSCE, and Diana Dimova, a representative of the European Union in Tajikistan. Diana Dimova warmly welcomed the participants and expressed the EU’s readiness for further collaboration in the field of education. She emphasized the opportunities provided by the Erasmus+ program, highlighting its importance for experience exchange and the implementation of best practices in educational institutions.

? Key objectives discussed during the event included familiarization with the concept of the “third mission of universities,” the exchange of recommendations for its integration into educational institutions, and the analysis of successful cooperation models between universities and the economy and society. Farhod Razoqovich Sharopov (Vice-Rector for Strategic Development of Tajik International University of Tourism and Entrepreneurship) presented on “Global Trends in Higher Education.” Meanwhile, Saidqosim Mukhtorov (Director of the International Relations Center of the Tajik Institute of Economics and Trade) focused on “The Role of Universities in Solving Social and Economic Problems.” These presentations fostered a deep understanding of current issues and the development of effective strategies for the future of higher education in Tajikistan.

In conclusion, Jamshed Nematulloyevich Mashokirov, Vice-Rector for Science and International Relations at Tajik State University of Commerce, expressed sincere gratitude to all participants for their active engagement and constructive discussions. He emphasized that such meetings not only facilitate the exchange of knowledge and experience but also strengthen connections between educational institutions, society, and the economy. In his address, he noted that the collective efforts of all participants will aid in implementing the concept of the “third mission of universities” and further advancing higher education in Tajikistan. His words inspired attendees toward new achievements and reinforced cooperation in the international educational space, opening up prospects for future initiatives and projects.