4th Industrial Revolution as a Challenge to the University Community

Currently, one can observe accelerated implementation of high-tech solutions including those developed on the basis of artificial intelligence in various sectors of economy and public relations, in particular, in education. In this regard, the article discusses the main challenges that the 4th industrial revolution poses to the higher education system. These challenges include the automation of a number of professions; lack of competent personnel; digitalization of the educational process, etc. The prospects of introducing a blockchain to fix personal achievements in the context of the development of artificial intelligence technologies in particular, are highlighted. The possibilities of processing large volumes of data (Big Data) are described in order to create ratings of universities, departments and teaching staff. The experience of introducing artificial intelligence technologies into the creation of an individual educational path and the formation of a «digital footprint» at the STI University «20.35» is analyzed. Namely, the creation of a digital fingerprint and its application; building a student’s optimal development path; effective team building and improving the effectiveness of e-learning are considered. The conclusion is made about the need to preserve the universal basic component of higher education.