In recent years, the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has fundamentally transformed the nature of international relations, the processes of knowledge production and dissemination, and the strategic functions of higher education institutions. Within this evolving landscape, educational diplomacy, as a key instrument of soft power, has undergone a profound transformation through its integration with the principles of smart governance and the imperatives of AI-driven technological innovation. This study aims to develop a strategic model for advancing the educational diplomacy of Iranian universities in the age of artificial intelligence from the perspective of smart governance.
To achieve this objective, the study adopted a qualitative research design using reflexive thematic analysis based on the methodological framework proposed by Braun and Clarke. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with eighteen experts in higher education, science diplomacy, technology policy, and data governance from selected Iranian universities, complemented by an analysis of national policy documents and the latest international scholarly literature. Data analysis followed the six-phase process of reflexive thematic analysis and proceeded through three analytical stages: initial coding, theme development, and theme review and definition.
The analysis yielded 117 initial codes, 22 subthemes, and 8 overarching themes, which were integrated into the proposed strategic model. The eight core themes comprise: (1) intelligent and data-driven infrastructure; (2) multi-level governance and data-driven policymaking; (3) human capital transformation and AI literacy; (4) science diplomacy and intelligent international networking; (5) global branding and international talent attraction; (6) ethics, cybersecurity, and algorithmic trust; (7) curriculum redesign and AI-enhanced pedagogy; and (8) innovation ecosystem development and technology transfer.
The findings indicate that the successful implementation of intelligent educational diplomacy requires redefining the institutional role of universities, transitioning from hierarchical governance toward participatory and data-driven governance, and aligning national higher education policies with the emerging architecture of the global knowledge order. The proposed model provides a strategic framework for redesigning the internationalization policies of Iranian universities and offers practical guidance for policymakers and higher education leaders seeking to strengthen educational diplomacy in the AI era.