This review examines artificial intelligence in education for sustainable development, focusing on digital equity, inclusive learning, and ethical governance. It analyzes how intelligent tutoring systems, adaptive platforms, and assistive technologies advance Sustainable Development Goal 4 (quality education) while connecting with goals on poverty, health, gender equality, decent work, innovation, reduced inequality, sustainable cities, and international partnerships. Research demonstrates AI’s potential for personalizing learning, supporting students with disabilities, and expanding access in resource-constrained contexts. However, these benefits materialize only when technologies complement human-centered pedagogical approaches rather than replace educators. Significant challenges persist, including algorithmic bias, data privacy concerns, infrastructure disparities, and digital divides that threaten to exacerbate inequalities if unaddressed. Critical research gaps remain regarding longitudinal impacts on learning outcomes, cost-effectiveness in developing countries, and participatory approaches incorporating teacher perspectives. Realizing AI’s educational benefits requires robust ethical governance, substantial infrastructure investment, comprehensive professional development emphasizing human-AI collaboration, and multi-stakeholder partnerships aligned with SDG 17. This review contributes to ethical AI discourse by providing evidence-based recommendations ensuring technological innovation serves human development rather than market imperatives alone.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Inclusive Education, Sustainable Development Goals, algorithmic bias, digital equity, ethical governance
