The role of AI implementation in higher education in achieving the sustainable development goals

Artificial intelligence (AI) holds immense potential to drive sustainable development by enabling progress toward the realization of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in the 2030 Agenda. This potential is emphasized by the concept of twin transitions, where the digital and green transformations reinforce each other. This study examines the integration of AI in 26 study courses at the University of Ljubljana, Slovenia, focusing on its sustainable impact. Using an exploratory case study and a comprehensive content analysis framework, the study identifies the enabling and inhibiting factors in the interplay of digital and green transitions in education. The results reveal that the integration of AI in higher education can facilitate progress toward achieving 11 SDGs and 28 targets by promoting innovation, equality, and digital literacy. At the same time, however, it also harbors risks that can hinder 7 SDGs and 11 targets, particularly in terms of data protection and equal access. By highlighting the synergies between digital and green transformations, this case study provides actionable insights for educators and policy makers who want to harness the transformative potential of AI while addressing its challenges and calls for future research in a broader educational landscape.