GOVERNANCE AND SUSTAINABILITY OF ICT-DRIVEN SYSTEMS IN OPEN AND DISTANCE LEARNING
Keywords:
Digital Education, higher education governance, ICT Governance, institutional sustainability, learning management systems, open and distance learning.Abstract
Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have become the backbone of modern Open and Distance Learning (ODL) systems, enabling institutions to deliver flexible and accessible education across geographic boundaries. However, many ICT-driven initiatives in higher education institutions fail to achieve long-term sustainability due to excessive reliance on individual actors rather than institutional frameworks. This study investigates the phenomenon commonly described as “strong individuals versus strong institutions” in the management of ICT-driven projects in ODL environments. Using qualitative analysis, document review, and case studies from open and distance learning institutions in Africa, Europe, and Asia, the research examines how personalization of ICT systems, lack of institutional governance, and weak knowledge transfer mechanisms contribute to project failure. Findings reveal that many ICT initiatives are developed and managed using personal communication channels, private accounts, or undocumented system architectures controlled by individual developers or administrators. These practices lead to institutional dependency on specific individuals, making systems difficult to maintain when leadership changes occur. The study argues that sustainable digital education systems require institutional ownership, governance frameworks, documentation standards, collaborative management, and capacity development among technical staff. The paper concludes that building strong institutions rather than relying on strong individuals is essential for the long-term sustainability of ICT-driven projects in ODL environments. Recommendations are provided for institutional policy development, ICT governance structures, knowledge management practices, and accountability mechanisms.
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