In the context of global economic and financial crisis, OECD countries are seeking to mobilise higher education institutions (HEIs) to support more strongly their economic, social and cultural development. HEIs can play a key role in human capital development and innovation systems and can help their cities and regions become more innovative and globally competitive.

The OECD Reviews of Higher Education in Regional and City Development assist local and regional governments and higher education institutions to achieve that objective. Since 2005, OECD/IMHE has reviewed 29 regions in 19 countries. The reviews have benefited from collaboration with OECD Directorates and programmes and partners such as the World Bank, UNESCO, Inter-American Development Bank (IADB), National Center for Higher Education Management Systems (NCHEMS) and Lumina Foundation.

The second round of the OECD reviews in 2008-10 has taken the reviews to new geographical areas in OECD countries and emerging economies. One of the regions reviewed is the Autonomous Region of Andalusia and this conference will take place in its regional capital, Seville.

Drawing on the OECD reviews and other studies conducted by the OECD, this conference will look at innovative ways in how HEIs can best contribute to making their cities and regions stronger, cleaner and fairer. It will highlight key issues in human capital development and innovation and identify ways of transforming universities.

This conference brings together policy makers and practitioners; public and private bodies concerned with regional development; leaders and managers of HEIs; and those responsible for knowledge transfer, regional development and community liaison at HEIs. I am looking forward to seeing you in Seville. I also welcome new cities and regions to participate in the third round of reviews.