Innovative Approaches to the Implementation of Inclusive Education in Higher Education Institutions of Ukraine

Introduction: in the contemporary scientific discourse, inclusion is recognized as a key component of quality education. This study aims to analyze modern scientific works on innovative approaches to implementing inclusive education in higher education institutions of Ukraine. It also seeks to identify key trends, current challenges, and prospects in this area. Methods: based on the PRISMA approach, the study analyzed 52 items of scientific sources published between 2015 and 2025 that were thematically related to inclusive education and innovation. Thematic analysis was used to process the papers. Results: the academic community is actively developing innovative views on implementing inclusive education in higher education institutions: the principles of universal design of learning, intercultural cooperation, STEAM-based education, digital inclusion and various innovative strategies. It is established that innovative approaches include universal learning design, integration of technological tools, formation of centres for inclusive education, training of teaching staff for inclusive teaching, personalization of educational trajectories, support for the inclusive infrastructure of higher education institutions, and the use of big data analytics. It is shown that notable challenges persist, such as insufficient teacher training, imperfect institutional and legal support, gaps in the material and technical base, and challenges of digitalization. Conclusions: therefore, the innovative areas identified in the Ukrainian context show promise but require further development and systematization. It has been established that inclusive education in Ukrainian higher education institutions is an active development area that demands systematic approaches to overcome existing challenges.