Universities currently find themselves at a huge crossroad.  The evolution of economic competitiveness based on knowledge and territorial development, established by regional systems of production, creates new challenges for universities for which new strategies and lines of action need to be determined. 

Besides the traditional practices in the fields of teaching/learning and scientific research, universities need to assume other competencies related to technological transfer, the spread of innovation, entrepreneurial incubation and promotion through the creation of spin offs and start ups, the development of science based businesses, technological services, involvement in technological centres and the introduction of new knowledge networks. Universities increasingly generate positive value in the regions they are affiliated, which can range from business to culture, from sports to urban recreation. 

According to the strategy of Lisbon , what role should universities play in regional development? 

Parallel Sessions:

• Universities, human capital and regional development
  
• Labour markets and regional productive specialization
  
• Environment, territory and sustainable development
  
• Tourism, culture and development
  
• Cities and development
  
• The urban-rural relations and services
  
• Portugal, the European Union and regional policies
  
• Territory, innovation and local development
  
• Trans-boarder relations
  
• Local and regional finance
  
• New information technologies in regional development
  
• Social problems and the territory
  
• VALUO – The real estate market in the historic centres