This study investigates the effect of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Higher Education to advance Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), for an inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all by 2030. The study discusses the capabilities of AI to provide personalized learning experiences, opportunities for better engagement, more streamlined administration, and lifelong learning that can increase access and improve quality of education that are required in the world. However, AI brings significant challenges for education systems-ethical challenges, algorithmic bias, data privacy, disparities in educational infrastructure, and the digital divide. To address these challenges, this study shares a strategic roadmap, made up of short, medium, and long-term goals. The phased roadmap highlights the need for governance frameworks, ethical principles, and stakeholder engagement to facilitate the responsible use of AI. The roadmap entails international cooperation and strategic policies to close gaps in infrastructure and access. This study’s key finding is that successful and responsible deployment of AI in education can be reached by a holistic approach using a core foundation of ethics, transparency, and accountability that can help build trust for stakeholders. This study underscores need to work strategically to consider the interaction of the existing pedagogical, technological, and policy systems with the role of AI, and create strong interdisciplinary paths to encourage and stimulate the transformation of higher education to more accessible, inclusive, and innovative educational system that aligns with SDG 4. It is the goal of this study for a coordinated effort between policy makers, educators and technology developers and providers for a sustainable education system in the world.