Determinants of Social Inclusion in South Asia: The Role of Education, <scp>ICT</scp> , Economic Growth, Trade, and Gender Equality

ABSTRACT Social inclusion is important for Sustainable Development in South Asia, as the region comprises a diverse range of socio‐economic systems, with substantial gender inequality and a digital divide. Education, ICT, economic development, trade openness, and gender equality may influence social inclusion in the region. Using five major South Asian economies, this study investigates the influence of education/Mean Year of Schooling (MYS), ICT, economic development (GDPPC), trade openness, and gender equality upon social inclusion using panel data from 2000 to 2023. By applying advanced econometric methodologies, such as Cross‐Sectionally Augmented ARDL (CS‐ARDL), Common Correlated Mean Group (CCEMG), and Two‐Stage Least Squares Instrumental Variables (2SLS‐IV) to control for cross‐sectional dependence, heterogeneity, and potential endogeneity, the results support that education has a considerable positive impact upon social inclusion, highlighting the importance of education to reduce inequality and promote sustainable development within South Asia. Conversely, economic growth exhibits a negative relationship with social inclusion, suggesting growth has been non‐inclusive. ICT, trade openness, and gender equality show positive but statistically insignificant effects, indicating structural barriers limit their potential. These findings have direct policy implications: South Asian governments must implement integrated strategies that prioritize educational quality and access, redesign growth policies to ensure broader benefit distribution, bridge digital divides through targeted infrastructure, and strengthen gender empowerment through institutional reforms. The study provides empirical evidence to guide SDG‐aligned policy formulation, particularly for Goals 4 (Education), 5 (Gender Equality), and 10 (Reduced Inequality) in the region.