Use of ICTs in Knowledge Management for Enhanced Institutional Sustainability

Abstract

Rationale of Study – The purpose of this paper is to identify and empirically assess the role of ICTs in enhancing knowledge management initiatives in  Kenyan universities as a means to achieve institutional sustainability. The study assesses the knowledge management processes, identifies the ICT tools  and technologies in use to enhance knowledge management of students’ information; and proposes a framework for the integration of ICTs in  knowledge management.

Methodology – This paper employed a quantitative research method using a descriptive approach, where one public and one private Kenyan university  in Meru County were sampled. Using purposive sampling, an online questionnaire was used for data collection from staff within faculty, academic  registrar, ICT, students’ finance, and library departments. The response rate was 75%. Descriptive statistics techniques were used to analyse the data.

Findings – The study revealed that universities have invested in ICT tools and technologies to support knowledge management processes. However, they  have not reaped full benefits due to their underutilisation. The results indicated that the institutions can achieve competitiveness, efficiency and  effectiveness and improved decision making through full utilisation of these ICT tools and technologies.

Practical Implications – This research contributes  to the need for ICT utilisation in knowledge management processes to enhance institutional  sustainability through competitiveness, improved decision making, efficiency and effectiveness within the higher education sector.

Originality – This is an original and empirical study conducted in two universities in Kenya.