DefinePK

Abstract

Higher education institutions (HEIs) play a transformative role in fostering regional development through collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation-driven partnerships. This paper examines how universities contribute to regional economic growth, social innovation, and capacity building within regional development frameworks. It explores mechanisms such as university-industry partnerships, cross-border research collaborations, and academic mobility programs that enhance the diffusion of knowledge. The study further highlights the significance of policy alignment between educational institutions and regional governance to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth. By drawing on successful models from South and East Asia, the paper emphasizes how collaborative higher education systems serve as engines for socio-economic advancement and innovation ecosystems.