Higher education governance under AI and geopolitical disruption: a socio-technical framework for administrative artificial intelligence

A framework published in Frontiers in Education examines the governance implications of administrative artificial intelligence within higher education, encompassing tools such as chatbots, predictive analytics, and automated screening in recruitment, admissions, and student support. The analysis highlights that administrative AI has been deployed swiftly amid geopolitical disruption impacting international student mobility and university financial models. Despite its operational significance, administrative AI is frequently categorized merely as routine efficiency, while research and governance oversight have remained narrowly focused on pedagogical applications.

This development matters because higher education institutions are increasingly reliant on automated systems to manage core revenue-generating and student intake functions amid volatile international operating environments. Treating administrative AI solely as routine technical efficiency exposes institutions to unmanaged governance, ethical, and strategic risks. Comprehensive oversight is essential to safeguard institutional resilience and navigate the geopolitical realities shaping student mobility.

Artificial intelligence has embedded itself into administrative functions including student recruitment, admissions processing, and student support services.

Forward consideration, not a verified fact.