Modernisation of the higher education system in the context of European integration

Abstract

The article analyses the challenges and priorities of modernising Ukraine’s higher education (HE) system in the context of European integration. It provides an overview of educational transformation processes driven by both internal factors and external ones. Strategic approaches to modernisation implemented in countries of the European Union (EU) are identified, including digital, internationalisation, inclusive, innovative, communication-based, regional and sustainable development strategies. A typology of these strategies is provided, along with generalised examples of effective national practices. Special attention is given to approaches to internationalisation strategies, which encompass mechanisms for integrating higher education institutions (HEIs) into the global educational area and transnational research networks. A conceptual scientific-methodological approach to modernising Ukraine’s HE system is proposed, consisting of sequential stages: analytical-diagnostic, strategic-conceptual, normative-institutional, technological-innovative, social-partnership, educational-cultural and monitoring-evaluative. This model ensures the integrity and consistency of transformational changes in accordance with European standards and enables the adaptation of global practices to the local context. It is demonstrated that the modernisation of HE is not a mechanical process of borrowing but requires deep cultural and institutional assimilation of new concepts and practices. The implementation of the proposed approach will contribute to improving the quality of educational services, strengthening the innovative capacity of universities, enhancing their international attractiveness and forming a flexible and resilient educational system capable of functioning effectively under European integration conditions.