Varied challenges connected with diversity in schools across the globe have gained great traction. Decades ago, efforts to adjust education have prioritised inclusion to address these issues. One important craze is the move towards full-bodied school-community partnerships, which aim to empower stakeholders to engage in school activities. This study aimed to explore the role of communities IE, assess their impact on academic and social outcomes, and identify barriers. This work also aimed at proposing actionable strategies. A review of existing knowledge was conducted. Data was screened using inclusion predefined criteria and analysed thematically to identify patterns and challenges in community engagement. The study’s results show that a key component of successful IE is community participation. It was found that community engagement enhances academic outcomes, fosters social inclusion, and addresses cultural barriers. It also supports teachers’ training, providing resources, sharing ideas and advocacy for systemic reforms. However, challenges like inadequate resources, cultural stigmas, and weak policy implementation persist. Creating open communication, providing training for stakeholders, and using digital platforms can facilitate collaboration. The study concludes that community participation is essential for advancing IE. Therefore, strengthening collaborations can transform education into an inclusive and equitable system that benefits all learners.