Challenges Faced by Private Chartered Universities in the Integration of Smart Technology
Peter Omari Nyagwencha, Catherine Amimo & Benson Kinuthia
University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, Kenya
Email: pomarihist@gmail.com
Abstract: This study investigated the challenges faced by selected private chartered universities in Kenya in integrating smart technologies into teaching and learning. Specifically, the study examined infrastructural, technical, financial, institutional, pedagogical, and human-related barriers influencing technology adoption from the perspectives of students, lecturers, and university administrators. The study adopted a concurrent mixed-methods approach using descriptive, comparative, and correlational research designs. Quantitative data were collected from 270 students and 64 lecturers using structured questionnaires, while qualitative data were obtained through interviews with Deputy Vice Chancellors (Academic Affairs), Directors of Quality Assurance, Heads of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), classroom observations, and document analysis. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, whereas qualitative data were analyzed thematically and integrated with the quantitative findings during interpretation. The findings indicate that smart technology integration is constrained by multiple interconnected challenges, including inadequate access to digital devices, unstable power supply, insufficient technical support, limited financial resources, weak institutional governance, inconsistent professional development, and varying levels of digital competence among lecturers and students. Although private chartered universities have made notable progress in adopting digital technologies, persistent institutional and human capacity constraints continue to limit the realization of sustainable digital transformation. The study concludes that successful smart technology integration requires coordinated investment in infrastructure, institutional leadership, continuous professional development, sustainable financing, and stakeholder participation. The findings provide evidence to inform university leaders and policymakers in strengthening institutional strategies for digital transformation in higher education.
