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Peer-reviewed Journal Article

Policy alignment and trustworthy AI governance in higher education

Kok Ban Teoh, Wee Ling Tan

Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies in Education · STAR Scholars Network · 15 June 2026

Summary based on abstract and available bibliographic information

Editorial Summary

This paper investigates the intersection of higher education reform and AI governance, specifically focusing on the alignment between national policies and regional ASEAN standards. It identifies critical governance gaps in institutional autonomy, capacity, and oversight, proposing a framework for universities to serve as trustworthy stewards of AI integration.

Central Research Question

How can national higher education reform agendas be aligned with regional AI governance imperatives through the institutional role of universities?

Key Findings

The study identifies four governance gaps: human-centered values and operational oversight, institutional autonomy and accountability, AI adoption and institutional capacity, and regional principles and uneven implementation readiness.

Methodology

Qualitative policy-informed conceptual synthesis

Evidence

The research synthesizes policy frameworks and governance principles to construct an integrated model for AI adoption in higher education.

Limitations

Not specified in available source

Why It Matters

As African universities increasingly adopt AI, this research offers a vital roadmap for balancing technological advancement with institutional autonomy. The findings highlight that African institutions must act as intermediary governance actors to prevent the erosion of ethical standards in digital education. By adopting an integrated policy framework, universities can ensure that AI adoption remains aligned with national development goals and regional principles.

Practical Implications

Universities should adopt an integrated framework that links policy vision with institutional governance, educational practice, and feedback-based learning.

Keywords

Artificial IntelligenceHigher EducationGovernancePolicy AlignmentInstitutional AutonomyASEANAcademic IntegrityDigital Transformation

InLaME Editorial Note

This page provides an original summary and contextual presentation of the source publication. Consult the original publication for the complete research, evidence, methods and conclusions.

Cite this Publication

Kok Ban Teoh, Wee Ling Tan (2026). Policy alignment and trustworthy AI governance in higher education. Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies in Education. https://doi.org/10.32674/eqphhh11

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