State support for universities in the context of global competitiveness

in the context of increasing global competition in higher education, enhancing the competitiveness of national universities becomes a strategic priority for the socio-economic and scientific-technological development of the country. This article aims to analyze the mechanisms of state support for Russian universities in the context of their integration into the global educational and research landscape, as well as to assess the effectiveness of key strategic programs. Special attention is given to the “5-100” Project and the “Priority 2030” Program, which have served as major instruments for transforming the Russian university sector over the past decade. The article explores the main objectives, stages of implementation, and achieved outcomes of these initiatives, highlighting both their positive impacts and systemic limitations. A comparative analysis with international university support models (Germany, China) is conducted, revealing both universal and uniquely Russian features of educational policy. Using content analysis, comparative and structural-functional approaches, the author concludes that comprehensive development of the university environment is essential, combining financial investment with institutional reforms, increased autonomy, human capital development, and the expansion of international cooperation. The findings may be useful for the formulation of new higher education strategies and for improving existing mechanisms of state support for universities in Russia.

state support, university competitiveness, 5-100 Project, Priority 2030 Program, higher education, university policy, international rankings, academic development