From infrastructure to innovation: a review of economic growth effects from ICT, education, and R&D

We review how information and communication technology (ICT), education, and Research and Development (R&D) work together to influence economic growth in both emerging and developed countries. To fill that gap, we reviewed 108 peer-reviewed papers from the Scopus database using thematic analysis and bibliometric mapping. Our review shows that ICT boosts the quality of education and strengthens R&D collaboration, which helps build skilled human capital and drive innovation, which is a key ingredient for economic growth. Education improves productivity and innovation potential, though its impact depends on the country's institutions and stage of development. R&D, meanwhile, supports long-term growth but needs a strong ecosystem and good governance to be effective. Overall, the findings point to a complex but influential relationship between ICT, education, and R&D. Together, they shape how economies grow, especially when policies are designed to match each country's unique needs and context.