Artificial Intelligence for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth: Aligning AI Technologies with the SDGs

Artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping economic, social, and environmental development, offering both opportunities and risks for global sustainability. This paper examines how AI capabilities such as predictive analytics, automation and data integration can be aligned with the targets of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to promote inclusive and sustainable growth. Using a systems perspective, the study treats AI as an enabling infrastructure influencing service delivery, governance, and knowledge production. It evaluates AI’s contributions in sectors such as finance, education, healthcare and climate management while also addressing challenges including digital inequality, algorithmic bias and governance gaps. The paper argues that AI can support equitable and sustainable development only when guided by ethical frameworks, inclusive policies and coordinated institutional strategies that prioritise long-term social and environmental outcomes.