Work

Evaluating the Adoption of Virtualization and Cloud Computing as Strategic IT Outsourcing Solutions for Enhancing Educational Efficiency at Njala University

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The rapid evolution of virtualization and cloud computing presents transformative potential for higher education institutions (HEIs), particularly in resourceconstrained settings like Sierra Leone. Despite their proven benefits in developed nations, significant gaps remain in understanding their adoption challenges and impacts in African HEIs. This study evaluates the implementation of these technologies at Njala University, addressing critical research gaps in IT outsourcing strategies for developing regions. Employing a mixedmethods approach, the research combines quantitative surveys (N = 1,000) and qualitative interviews (n = 15) to assess three key hypotheses: the impact on IT resource management (H₁), operational efficiency (H₂), and educational outcomes (H₃). Findings reveal strong correlations (r = 0.805–0.939, p < 0.001), confirming significant improvements in all areas, with 87.6% of respondents reporting enhanced IT management and 76.7% observing better educational efficiency. However, infrastructural deficits (e.g., unreliable internet) and skill gaps emerged as critical moderators. The study validates the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework while proposing "infrastructure viability" as a new construct for developing contexts. Practical implications include prioritizing bandwidth upgrades, capacity building, and localized cloud policies. Despite its contributions, the single-institution focus limits generalizability, suggesting the need for cross-national studies. Future research should explore longitudinal costbenefit analyses and policy frameworks to support scalable adoption. This work provides actionable insights for HEIs and policymakers, bridging the gap between theoretical models and real-world implementation in resourceconstrained environments.

Source: International Research Journal of Innovations in Engineering and Technology

DOI: 10.47001/irjiet/2025.905045

Authors: Mohamed Koroma, Kadiatu Fofanah, Gibrilla Salaam kamara, Alimamy Saidu Konteh, Idrissa koroma

Institutions: Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics, Njala University, Xi'an Jiaotong University

Language: English

Topic: Innovative Educational Technologies

Subfield: Information Systems

Field: Computer Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics