Enabling Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Smart Governance and Improve the Efficiency of Higher Education Management

Abstract

Abstract:
This study examines the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an enabler of smart governance and its contribution to improving the efficiency and innovation of higher education management in emerging Saudi universities, using Shaqra University as a case study. A descriptive survey design was employed. Data were collected from 371 academic and administrative staff through a validated questionnaire. The overall reliability of the instrument was acceptable (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.798).Findings indicate that the Smart Governance dimension scored a moderate level with an overall mean of 2.17/3 (72.33%). The highest-rated aspects were more accurate academic performance monitoring (2.44; 81.33%) and improved academic assessment (2.43; 81.00%), whereas the lowest-rated aspect was enhancing collaboration between faculty and administration (1.68; 56.00%). The AI Support for Smart Governance dimension also reflected a moderate level with an overall mean of 2.226/3 (74.20%), with stronger perceptions regarding data analytics for decision-making and student performance tracking with feedback (2.28; 76.00%), but relatively lower perceptions for monitoring academic development of students and teachers (2.15; 71.67%). The AI-Driven Innovation in Education Management dimension achieved a moderate level with an overall mean of 2.037/3 (67.90%): respondents rated developing innovative teaching strategies highly (2.56; 85.33%), while institutional adaptability to future changes was rated low (1.28; 42.67%).The study recommends moving from fragmented adoption to integrated institutional implementation by strengthening digital infrastructure and data governance, expanding professional training, and deploying learning analytics and interactive AI applications aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.