Digital Inequality and Transformation in South African Higher Education During COVID-19: A Comparative Analysis of Historically Disadvantaged and Historically Advantaged Universities
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: How did digital transformation and digital inequality manifest in South Africa’s higher education institutions during COVID-19, particularly comparing historically disadvantaged universities (HDUs) with historically advantaged universities (HAUs). This study is significant because it explores the direct impact of digital transformation on South African public universities and how digital inequality worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Qualitative research techniques were used in the study. The literature was collected from online repositories, and it was analysed using content analysis. The study covered all public HDUs and HAUs in South African public sector. Findings indicate that in terms of the state of digital transformation, HDUs lag behind HAUs for various reasons. The causes of digital inequality are multifaceted and include a lack of technology expertise, unredressed apartheid policies, poor network coverage, lack of access to information technology and poor infrastructure. These challenges can be addressed through policy reformulation, infrastructure development and institutional collaboration.
Source: Higher Education Policy
Institution: University of Johannesburg
Language: English
Subfield: Information Systems
Field: Computer Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $2,690
Funders: Durban University of Technology, Rhodes University, University of Pretoria, Northwest University, Universiteit Stellenbosch, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Inyuvesi Yakwazulu-Natali, Central University of Technology, University of Johannesburg, University of Cape Town, Tshwane University of Technology, University of South Africa, University of Venda, Vaal University of Technology, Nelson Mandela University, University of Zululand
OpenAlex ID: W4413303293