Strengthening the Strategic Role of University Research and Community Engagement Bodies in Advancing Regional Collaboration

Universities are increasingly expected not only to excel in teaching and research but also to actively contribute to sustainable development and regional collaboration. This study investigates how research and community engagement bodies in higher education institutions can be strategically strengthened to integrate the University Social Responsibility (USR) agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through regional collaboration. Employing a qualitative case study design, the research was conducted at Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia, using semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and documentary analysis. Data were analyzed thematically and triangulated to ensure reliability and validity. The findings are clustered into three thematic areas: (1) institutional roles, where the Research and Community Engagement Board (BPPM) serves as a bridge between academia and regional priorities; (2) challenges and opportunities, which include resource constraints, teaching overload, and the need for stronger multi-stakeholder collaboration; and (3) strategic mechanisms, encompassing innovation forums, sustainability reporting, and integration with global rankings. Quantitative highlights such as research project outputs, community engagement programs, and budget allocations support these findings. The study contributes to the literature by providing an in-depth understanding of the institutional dynamics that enable universities to operationalize USR and SDGs within regional development frameworks. It also offers practical insights for policymakers and higher education leaders seeking to enhance institutional capacity and governance in pursuit of sustainable and inclusive growth.