Marina Borovskaya, President of the Southern Federal University, Chairman of the Council of Rectors of Universities in the South of Russia, Academician of the Russian Academy of Education, took part in the round table.

During the discussion, experts discussed the impact of the technological revolution on global development, the role of strategic partnerships, and challenges in a turbulent world.

In her speech, Marina Alexandrovna noted that the higher education system is entering the stage of conscious sectoral and regional specialization of universities.

"By the end of 2025, it became obvious that a whole group of universities began to form a clear industry and regional affiliation — some with mechanical engineering, others with agrobiotechnology, new materials or unmanned systems," said Marina Borovskaya.

According to the president, this process is becoming one of the key trends of 2026 and reflects not only Russian, but also international practice. She also noted that the focus is shifting from abstract technology selection to institutional work — building service models, improving the quality of personnel and building trust.

"Universities increasingly need to align their educational and research programs with real industry and regional demands, as well as offer more flexible and applied training and advanced training formats," Marina Borovskaya summarized.