BUILDING THE COMPETITIVENESS OF UKRAINIAN HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS THROUGH INTEGRATION INTO THE EU’S RESEARCH AREA

Abstract

In the course of the study, the authors systematically analyzed the strategic vectors of modernization of higher education in Ukraine in the context of independence, focusing on its role as a driving force of society. It is argued that the goal of this transformation is to ensure the country’s advanced, sustainable development and innovative breakthrough in the scientific, technological, industrial, economic, social, and humanitarian spheres. It has been proven that this task is relevant in the context of building a knowledge society and requires close coordination of national reforms with the goals and standards of the European Research Area (ERA). We proceed from the recognition that the problem under study of forming the international competitiveness of higher education institutions in Ukraine is multifaceted and integrative, and its effective solution is impossible without full and systematic integration into the ERA. This space, in accordance with the Law of Ukraine “On Scientific and Scientific and Technical Activity,” is defined as a key system of programs and policy instruments that unites the institutional research environment of the EU to ensure the free transfer of knowledge and mobility of researchers. The integration of Ukraine’s research infrastructure into the ERA is an important component of the overall European integration strategy, as clearly stated in the Roadmap for European Integration of Ukraine (Order of the Ministry of Education and Science No. 1501 of December 11, 2023). In the course of our research, we sought to make the most of the potential of a comprehensive, structurally logical approach. This allowed us not only to describe the current state of integration processes, but also to identify certain barriers that hinder the full participation of HEIs in key European programs. We systematized Ukraine’s historical experience of participation in European programs (Tempus, Socrates), which acted as catalysts for the initial harmonization of educational standards, laying the foundations for further institutional readiness to join the ERA. Following the logic of our reasoning, we consider it necessary to move from stating European integration intentions to developing specific tools and mechanisms to enhance the competitiveness of HEIs. Based on the conclusions, a set of practical recommendations aimed at the institutional transformation of HEIs has been formulated.