Narymen Benrachou, Paley Tatiana Feliksovna
Over the past three decades there has been a vigorous academic effort to understand the internal dynamics of the "knowledge economy" and the digital revolution. Firms in modern economies invest in a broader range of intangible assets, such as R&D, data, software, patents, design, specific personnel skills. Taken together, these non-physical assets constitute knowledge-based capital. Investment in knowledge is economy-wide; it is not limited to high-tech sectors or to R&D alone. Currently, in developed countries they exceed material investments and have become one of the predominant features of the modern economy. Russia is among the top ten countries in terms of R&D expenditures. These circumstances are clear evidence that the role of universities in an economy dominated by knowledge-based capital formation and innovation-based economic growth cannot be underestimated. In view of the above, the purpose of the article is to formalize the prerequisites for innovative development of the system of higher professional education in the Russian Federation and develop recommendations aimed at enhancing the inclusion of universities in the innovation ecosystem of the country. Research methods: statistical and comparative analysis, generalization, abstract-logical approach, systematization, modeling, grouping. Results: The article outlines the features and trends of the digital revolution at the present stage, highlighting its driving factors and the role of innovative universities in ensuring the countries' progress. In order to realize the potential available in Russia, the structure of the innovation ecosystem is formalized and targeted tools are highlighted, which will ensure greater involvement and inclusion of universities in achieving digital leadership and technological sovereignty of the country.