Speaker
Description
Ezeani, A. N.
ENUGU STATE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (TECHNICAL), ENUGU
ngoziaishatu@gmail.com
Track: Inclusion, Equity and Digital Access
BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE IN AFRICAN HIGHER EDUCATION: A STUDY OF INCLUSION, EQUITY, AND DIGITAL ACCESS IN UNIVERSITIES IN
SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA.
By
Dr Aishatu Ngozi Ezeani
Enugu State College of Education Technical, Enugu
Department of Entrepreneurship Education
Email: ngoziaishatu@gmail.com
Phone No:07039281457
Dr Loveth Oluchukwu Eze.
Enugu State College of Education Technical, Enugu
Email: ezelovetholunuchukwu@gmail.com
Phone No: 08062934874.
Ijere Carlyster Nonye
Enugu State College of Education Technical, Enugu
Email:carlyster.ijere@escet.edu.ng
Phone No: 08134968206
Abstract
This study investigated issues of inclusion, equity, and digital access within higher education institutions in South-East Nigeria, with the broader goal of addressing the digital divide and supporting the development of future-oriented university systems in Africa. The study was anchored on four specific empirical objectives, which examined students’ and lecturers’ level of access to digital learning tools, the degree of digital inclusion in academic activities, the challenges limiting effective digital participation, and the influence of institutional support mechanisms on equitable access to digital resources. A descriptive survey research design was employed. The study population consisted of undergraduate students and academic staff from selected universities in South-East Nigeria. A sample of 500 respondents was drawn from six universities using a multi-stage sampling procedure that combined stratified, proportionate, and simple random sampling techniques. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire, which was validated by experts in Educational Technology and Measurement and Evaluation to ensure suitability and relevance. Reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s Alpha, with a threshold of 0.70 and considered acceptable. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation, based on a 2.50 decision benchmark on a 4-point Likert scale. The study observed differences in levels of digital access and inclusion, influenced by infrastructural gaps, affordability issues, and limited digital literacy skills. It concludes that improving ICT infrastructure and strengthening institutional support systems are critical for reducing digital inequality in South-East Nigerian universities.
Keywords: Digital divide, inclusion, equity, digital access, higher education, South-East Nigeria