Exploring university effect in Turkish regional development-A multifaceted statistical approach

This study investigates the multifaceted influence of universities on regional economic development and convergence in Turkey (2008-2020). The study employs regression, hierarchical multiple regression (HMR), and discriminant function analysis (DFA) to assess the impact of various university dimensions (demand, human capital, innovation, knowledge production, collaboration) on development levels, growth rates, and interregional convergence. Findings reveal a positive association between universities and regional progress, driven by factors like student enrolment, faculty size, expenditures, and graduate skillsets. University-related innovation exhibits regional variations, with established regions experiencing lower growth despite stronger innovation ecosystems. However, new firms emerging from knowledge spillovers stimulate both development and growth. While "triple helix" or "quadruple helix" cooperation contributes to development, the increase in the number and amount of cooperation does not meaningfully support growth. Discriminant analysis suggests universities promote convergence, with increases in demand, human capital, and knowledge diffusion, enabling underdeveloped regions to catch up. This research, employing a comprehensive spatiotemporal framework, contributes to regional development scholarship by analysing universities' role in convergence. Limitations include data restrictions and a cross-sectional focus. Future research avenues include university quality classification and cross-country comparisons. Policy recommendations focus on increasing demand, developing human capital, retaining graduates, supporting R&D and innovation capacities and promoting university-industry-public cooperation.

Journal

CITIES

Year

2025

Volume

159

ISSN

0264-2751

eISSN

1873-6084

DOI

10.1016/j.cities.2025.105730

WoS UID

WOS:001408178900001