This paper examines the pace of economic and social change in the Pacific Rim region, discussing the role that universities should play in mediating such change. It addresses five major issues pertaining to the role of universities: (1) the individual university's role in human resource development; (2) the relationship between universities and the greater community in regard to human resource development; (3) the relationships among universities within a single nation in regard to human resource development; (4) international cooperation among universities to foster human resource development; and (5) appropriate safeguards related to university autonomy. To address these challenges, universities need to emphasize applied and interdisciplinary curricula, enhance program delivery systems, develop centers for applied research, link universities via telecommunications networks, sponsor community education centers, and assure the quality of their educational programs. (MDM)