Digital Transformation and Sustainable Development in Nigerian Higher Education Institutions: The Moderating Role of Organizational Culture

Abstract

This study explores the impact of digital transformation on sustainable development in Nigerian higher education institutions (HEIs), with a focus on the moderating role of organizational culture. While digital transformation enhances operational efficiency, resource optimization, and educational accessibility, its implementation faces challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, low digital literacy, and resistance to change. Grounded in dynamic capability theory, the study examines how digital transformation enables organizations to adapt and thrive. A quantitative approach was employed, surveying 360 faculty, students, and administrative staff, with 348 valid responses analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings confirm a significant positive relationship between digital transformation and sustainability, with organizational culture playing a crucial role in reinforcing sustainability outcomes. Additionally, organizational culture moderates this relationship, underscoring the need for a supportive digital environment to maximize the benefits of transformation initiatives. The study contributes to literature by demonstrating that digital transformation, when aligned with an adaptive organizational culture, enhances sustainability in HEIs. Practical implications highlight the need for policies promoting a digital-friendly culture while addressing barriers to technology adoption. Future research should explore leadership, government policies, and financial constraints to further understand how Nigerian HEIs can leverage digital transformation for long-term sustainability and educational advancement.