Harnessing smart systems for social management: reflections from ICSSSM 2025

Purpose The purpose of this conference report is to document the key activities, academic contributions and outcomes of the First International Conference on Smart Systems and Social Management (ICSSSM 2025), held at The Assam Royal Global University. It provides an overview of the conference themes, sessions, keynote insights, research presentations and publication plans. Design/methodology/approach This conference report follows a descriptive and analytical approach based on a systematic review of the official ICSSSM 2025 Programme, session proceedings, keynote addresses and organizer provided documentation. Content analysis was conducted on plenary sessions, technical tracks and statistical data related to submissions, acceptances and participation. Findings The conference revealed strong interdisciplinary engagement across seven major tracks, demonstrating growing interest in artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), digital governance and smart library services. Analysis of 122 presentations showed significant contributions in areas such as AI-driven information systems, smart city frameworks, digital inclusion and sustainable development applications. Originality/value This offers a unique documentation of the inaugural ICSSSM 2025, capturing its interdisciplinary focus on integrating smart systems with social management a niche rarely addressed in a single academic forum. It highlights the conference’s distinctive emphasis on “Library 2030,” ethical AI, inclusive digital governance and culturally grounded smart technologies.