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

Mohamed Koroma (Ing)Lecturer, School of Technology, Computer Science & I.T Department, Njala University, Sierra Leone, West AfricaKadiatu FofanahMSC Student, Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics, Department of Economics and Finance, ChinaGibrilla Salaam kamaraLecturer, School of Technology, Industrial Technology Department, Njala University, Sierra Leone, West AfricaAlimamy Saidu KontehLecturer, Milton Margai Technical University, Electrical & Electronics Department Sierra Leone, West AfricaIdrissa koromaMSc Student, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Department of Economics and Finance, Xi’an city, China

Vol 9 No 5 (2025): Volume 9, Issue 5, May 2025 | Pages: 400-416

International Research Journal of Innovations in Engineering and Technology

OPEN ACCESS | Research Article | Published Date: 30-05-2025

doi Logo doi.org/10.47001/IRJIET/2025.905045

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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.

Keywords

Virtualization, Cloud Computing, IT Outsourcing, Higher Education, Resource Constraints, TOE Framework


Citation of this Article

Mohamed Koroma (Ing), Kadiatu Fofanah, Gibrilla Salaam kamara, Alimamy Saidu Konteh, & Idrissa koroma. (2025). Evaluating the Adoption of Virtualization and Cloud Computing as Strategic IT Outsourcing Solutions for Enhancing Educational Efficiency at Njala University. International Research Journal of Innovations in Engineering and Technology - IRJIET, 9(5), 400-416. Article DOI https://doi.org/10.47001/IRJIET/2025.905045

Licence Copyright (c) 2026 International Research Journal of Innovations in Engineering and Technology creative common licence This work is licensed under Creative common Attribution Non Commercial 4.0 Internation Licence
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