Inclusive and equitable quality higher education has become a global priority, necessitating that universities implement strategies to ensure equitable access, participation, and outcomes for learners from diverse socio‐economic, cultural, and demographic backgrounds. Achieving this goal requires appropriate strategic planning that not only sets the right long-term objectives but also ensures that resources and policies are aligned efficiently with the goals. Recently, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed strategic planning by making it more data-driven, predictive, and adaptive, thereby enhancing the capacity of universities to anticipate challenges, allocate resources efficiently, and design responsive policies. Governance, in this regard, provides the foundation by ensuring that appropriate objectives are set and that institutional decisions are guided by accountability, transparency, fairness, responsibility, and independence. Thus, good governance is crucial for guaranteeing that AI is used responsibly in developing strategies that are proper and aligned with stakeholders’ priorities.

This study aims to develop a conceptual framework that integrates governance principles with artificial intelligence for strategic planning towards inclusive and equitable quality universities. This study employs a systematic review of the existing literature to examine the interplay between governance, AI, and strategic planning in the context of inclusive higher education. The findings are synthesized into a conceptual framework that demonstrates how governance principles guide strategic objectives, how AI enhances planning processes, and how their combined effect supports the realization of inclusive and equitable quality universities.

This study contributes by connecting governance theory with emerging technological applications towards inclusive and equitable quality universities. It offers both theoretical insights and practical guidance for policymakers, university leaders, and stakeholders who seek to incorporate inclusivity, equity, and sustainability into strategies for higher education.

Conference Title

International Conference on Fintech and Development (ICFD 2025)

Conference Country

United Kingdom

Conference Date

Nov. 13, 2025 - Nov. 13, 2025

Conference Sponsor

University of Greater Manchester

Additional Info

Conference Website