Digital intelligence technologies and environmental governance in universities: a China-Arab comparative study

Purpose This study focuses on universities in China and Arab countries. It explores three dimensions (Technology–Organization–Environment [TOE]) of education governance under future digital intelligence technology: the technology dimension (data-driven reform of governance paradigms), the organization dimension (human machine collaboration reshaping subject relationships), and the environment dimension (restructuring governance models and deepening international cooperation). It also examines the relationships among these dimensions. This study aims to use the TOE framework as its theoretical foundation, systematically analyzing the digital governance practices of Chinese and Arab universities and the mechanisms supporting social sustainable development. Design/methodology/approach The research is based on policy documents from China and Arab countries, university reports, digital governance platform data and materials from international organizations. It selects and compares universities that have demonstrated success in digital governance practices. Findings In the process of integrating digital intelligence technology with university environmental governance, China and Arab countries should actively embrace the opportunities brought by technological innovation. They should explore distinctive paths based on their national conditions, uphold the educational mission of human machine collaborative development, and actively participate in global governance cooperation. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, using the TOE framework, this study conducts the first cross country comparison of digital environmental governance practices in universities in China and Arab countries. It offers new perspectives for the globalization of digital technology and education environmental governance, and provides innovative development recommendations.