Data Governance and Digital Transformation in Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

Digital transformation is changing how higher education institutions collect, manage, share and use information for teaching, research, administration and institutional decision-making. As universities increasingly depend on digital platforms and interconnected information systems, effective data governance has become important for maintaining data quality, security, accountability and responsible use. This review examines the relationship between data governance and digital transformation in higher education institutions, with particular attention to institutional policies, data ownership, access management, data quality, privacy, interoperability and organisational capacity. The review considers how governance arrangements can support the effective adoption of digital technologies while reducing risks associated with fragmented information systems, inconsistent data practices and inappropriate access to institutional information. Particular attention is given to challenges affecting higher education institutions in African and West African contexts, including limited technical capacity, uneven infrastructure, institutional coordination challenges and resource constraints. The review argues that digital transformation should be supported by clear governance structures that define responsibilities, establish appropriate data-management practices and promote accountability across institutional units. It concludes that effective data governance can provide a foundation for more reliable digital services, better institutional decision-making and sustainable digital transformation in higher education.

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