STRATEGIC PLANNING FOR DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN HIGHER EDUCATION IN CAMEROON

Authors: Shaibou Abdoulai Haji & Sii Marie Pascale

ABSTRACT

This study examines strategic planning for digital transformation in higher education in Cameroon, focusing on how universities plan, resource, and govern digital initiatives for teaching, learning, and administration. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study collected questionnaire data from 55 respondents (university administrators, ICT staff, and lecturers) and conducted interviews with key stakeholders in three public universities, complemented by document review. Findings indicate that while institutions have expanded digital learning and administrative systems, following the COVID-19 disruption, progress remains uneven. Key constraints include inadequate infrastructure and connectivity, limited and unpredictable financing, weak governance and coordination mechanisms, and insufficient staff capacity-building. The study concludes that digital transformation in Cameroonian universities requires coherent institutional roadmaps aligned with national priorities, strengthened digital governance, sustained investment, and systematic professional development. Practical recommendations are proposed for university leaders and policymakers to improve implementation, monitoring, and scalability.

Keywords: digital transformation; strategic planning; higher education; Cameroon; leadership

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