IREX and Development Gateway Publish Global Study on University AI Readiness

May 7, 2026
IREX and Development Gateway have released a report showing that while universities are eager to adopt AI, most lack clear strategies and governance structures to manage it responsibly.

IREX and Development Gateway announced in a press release the release of a new report titled From Ambition to Adoption: Insights into University AI Readiness from Around the World. The study examines how universities use artificial intelligence in teaching, research, and administration.

The global survey, conducted from November 2025 to January 2026 in partnership with the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, found that while universities are eager to adopt AI, many lack the necessary infrastructure and governance. Only one in three institutions has a clear AI strategy, and fewer than one in five have governance structures to manage it responsibly.

The report also shows that only 37 percent of respondents receive continuous AI-related training or professional development. According to Development Gateway CEO Josh Powell, universities are enthusiastic about AI's potential to enhance learning and operations but face challenges in building governance and preparing students for an AI-influenced job market.

The findings are intended to help university leaders, policymakers, and development partners benchmark readiness and identify investment priorities for safe and ethical AI integration.

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