University-Rural partnership framework: A systematic approach to sustainable rural development through higher education engagement

Universities are increasingly expected to fulfill their “third mission” by contributing to rural revitalization through sustained, evidence-based community engagement. Following PRISMA guidelines, this study systematically reviews international and Chinese literature (2000–2024) from major databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, CNKI, Wanfang, and Peking University Law School. It develops a three-layer framework—strategic fit, operational pathways, and enabling conditions—and proposes a phased roadmap comprising diagnosis and joint planning, pilot co-creation, promotion, and evaluation. Two illustrative cases from recent Chinese studies demonstrate how university–community collaboration enhances rural resilience and project sustainability. The study further identifies measurable outputs (e.g., talent development, technology transfer, farmers’ income, governance participation) and related feedback mechanisms. This research integrates dispersed practices into a systematic, transnationally applicable framework with practical implementation and evaluation guidance.