International Research Journal of Innovations in Engineering and Technology - IRJIET International Open Access, Monthly, Peer Reviewed, Reputed Journal ISSN (online): 2581-3048

Impact Factor (2025): 6.9

DOI Prefix: 10.47001/IRJIET

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

Abstract

The rapid evolution of virtualization and cloud computing presents transformative potential for higher education institutions (HEIs), particularly in resource-constrained 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 mixed-methods 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 cost-benefit 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 resource-constrained environments.

Country : West Africa / China

1 Mohamed Koroma (Ing)2 Kadiatu Fofanah3 Gibrilla Salaam kamara4 Alimamy Saidu Konteh5 Idrissa koroma

  1. Lecturer, School of Technology, Computer Science & I.T Department, Njala University, Sierra Leone, West Africa
  2. MSC Student, Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics, Department of Economics and Finance, China
  3. Lecturer, School of Technology, Industrial Technology Department, Njala University, Sierra Leone, West Africa
  4. Lecturer, Milton Margai Technical University, Electrical & Electronics Department Sierra Leone, West Africa
  5. MSc Student, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Department of Economics and Finance, Xi’an city, China

IRJIET, Volume 9, Issue 5, May 2025 pp. 400-416

doi.org/10.47001/IRJIET/2025.905045

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