The Contribution of The International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education to The Evolving Knowledge Ecosystem: a Bibliometric–Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to reveal the intellectual structure and conceptual evolution of the discipline by mapping the knowledge ecosystem of International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education (IJSHE) in the field of sustainability in higher education between 2010 and 2025 through a holistic perspective. Design/methodology/approach – The present study was designed using a bibliometric–systematic literature review analysis examining the publication trends, citation networks, author collaborations and thematic developments of the journal between 2010 and 2025. Findings – The findings indicate that the field has shifted from a descriptive awareness process to a transformative action (praxis) process. Furthermore, the analysis shows that the field has evolved from theoretical discussions to applied competencies and institutional integration. Originality/value – This study maps the intellectual structure and publication trends of the IJSHE, thus guiding future academic work and providing university administrators with an evidence-based strategic roadmap for developing sustainability policies.