TRENDS AND FEATURES OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE EU HIGHER EDUCATION SECTOR AT THE CURRENT STAGE OF THE EVOLUTION OF EUROPEAN INTEGRATION

Abstract

Given the technological changes in the modern economy, the development of higher education (НЕ) is particularly important for all countries. The EU strategies in this sphere have a forward-looking character at the global level, and the trends in the development of this sector serve as benchmarks for all countries, especially for Ukraine. The aim of this paper is to identify the trends and features of the development of the EU НЕ sector at the current stage. The article considers the growing demand for highly qualified specialists and НЕ, as well as the challenges arising in this sphere. A general characterization of the regionalization of the НЕ sector in the EU is provided, and the set of main objectives for its development is outlined. The features and characteristics of the regional market of educational services in the EU are identified, as well as the specifics of its competitive environment in both external and internal dimensions, especially regarding the enhancement of competitiveness. It is emphasized that НЕ remains under the competence of national governments, while the EU complements national measures in this sphere and creates the framework conditions for its development. The EU implements a set of measures to improve the quality, equity, and accessibility of education, to stimulate academic mobility, and to expand and deepen international cooperation in НЕ. Special support is given to digital, green, and STEM education. An important feature of the EU is the combination of competition and cooperation, which forms a specific “engine” for НЕ development. The main trends in the development of the EU НЕ sector are outlined. The issue of uneven development among member states is highlighted, as demonstrated by cluster analysis (clusters of “leaders” “followers” and “laggards” are distinguished). Based on the calculation of the average annual index, an assessment of the coordinated increase in resource provision and НЕ performance indicators across EU countries is conducted. Common imperatives and directions for ensuring the prospective development of НЕ in the EU, corresponding to the current stage of European integration, are identified.