Higher education quality curriculum development under the sustainable development goals banner

This study aims to examine the role of SDGs in fostering quality education that addresses the gap between higher education and industry needs. This study conducts an in-depth literature review of 20 journal articles published between 2015 and 2025 in the Web of Science based on their topic relevance and ability to answer the research question. This study found that SDG 4 and its targets provide a framework for universities to rethink curriculum design and assessment in a manner that fosters quality education. A quality education curriculum can be achieved through a raft of measures, including the explicit alignment of the SDGs with curriculum and course content development. Amongst other things, course content developers must be inclusive of curriculum development, including working closely with industry in course development and ensuring that the developed programs meet industry needs and international standards. Simultaneously, assessment must be designed to ensure that it embodies critical thinking and other aspects that foster practicality in providing real solutions to real problems facing society. After the COVID-19 pandemic, staff and students’ work-life balance formed the core of quality curriculum considerations. This study offers insights into how SDG 4 can be operationalised to bridge the gap between higher education curricula and industry needs. This study articulates a framework for aligning curriculum design, assessment, and industry engagement with sustainability, inclusivity, and practical problem-solving principles.