ACADEMIC POTENTIAL OF POLISH CITIES. FROM CENTRES OF ADVANTAGE TO CENTRES OF VULNERABILITY.

Purpose: The purpose of the article is to compile a list of Polish cities according to their academic potential. Design/methodology/approach: The starting point of the article is to indicate the significance of human capital and education to build the economic position of Polish cities. The main part of the analysis is based on the data prepared by the Ministry of Education and Science on the number of universities, the number of students, the structure of majors and ministerial scholarship holders in 2021. Findings: The analysis allowed for the preparation of a proposal to classify Polish cities according to their academic potential. Cities with absolute advantages, lower potential, but compensated by unique characteristics, cities difficult to classify, cities exceeding their size and rank in terms of academic potential, and cities representing the greatest challenge to build human capital and shape pro-investment policy were included in the division. Originality/value: The article is based on the latest data provided by the Ministry of Education and Science. The results may prove to be useful for local governments and persons responsible for shaping regional development policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]