Speaker
Description
Oluwabukunmi, L. M.
SIKIRU ADETONA COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, OMU-AJOSE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA.
mike2013.lawal@gmail.com
Track: Digital Transformation in Higher Education
Digital transformation is no longer optional; it is an existential imperative for tertiary institutions seeking to remain relevant in a globalized knowledge economy. However, many institutions are hindered by legacy systems, limited digital infrastructure, and a lack of integrated strategic planning. This study aims to propose a comprehensive model for smart campus development, with the objectives of assessing the role of cloud-based infrastructure and designing strategies to foster institutional digital maturity. To achieve these objectives, the study employed a longitudinal mixed-methods research design conducted across three purposively selected tertiary institutions within southwest Nigeria. The quantitative phase involved the use of SPSS to conduct descriptive and inferential statistical analysis on network latency, server uptime, and IT budget efficiency metrics. Simultaneously, the qualitative phase employed a Thematic Analysis approach, supported by NVivo software, to process data derived from semi-structured interviews with 30 key institutional stakeholders, including principal management staff, faculty leaders, and administrative heads. Furthermore, the study applied the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as a theoretical lens to interpret organizational readiness and adoption barriers. This triangulation of empirical performance data and stakeholder perspectives enabled a comprehensive evaluation of both technical benchmarks and the complexities of organizational change management. Findings demonstrate that successful transformation requires a synchronized approach aligning technical infrastructure with organizational culture and financial sustainability. The study concludes that smart campuses are built upon the pillars of robust connectivity, seamless system interoperability, and data-driven decision-making. It is recommended that institutions: prioritize the development of unified digital ecosystems to replace siloed legacy systems; foster cross-departmental collaboration to harmonize digital policy; invest in high-capacity, reliable campus-wide connectivity to support ubiquitous learning; utilize smart data analytics for resource and energy optimization; and adopt sustainable, renewable energy solutions to power digital infrastructure, ensuring long-term institutional resilience.