Knowledge Storage Capability and Competitiveness of Chartered Public Universities in Kenya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/jbsm.3596Keywords:
Knowledge Storage Capability, University Competitiveness, Chartered Public UniversitiesAbstract
Purpose: This study examined the effect of knowledge storage capability on the competitiveness of chartered public universities in Kenya. The study sought to determine whether the ability of universities to systematically capture, preserve, and retrieve institutional knowledge contributes to improved institutional performance and competitiveness.
Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The target population comprised 31 chartered public universities in Kenya, with middle-level managers serving as the units of observation. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 155 respondents, including registrars, finance officers, ICT officers, librarians, and deans of faculty. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and secondary institutional data, and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and regression analysis with SPSS.
Findings: The findings revealed that universities have generally established systems supporting knowledge storage, including information backup policies, IT platforms for data warehousing, and library archiving systems. Competitiveness indicators showed improving research citations, moderate student enrolment recovery, and fluctuating patent registrations. Correlation analysis showed a positive and significant relationship between knowledge storage capability and competitiveness (r = 0.344, p < 0.01). Regression results further confirmed that knowledge storage capability significantly influences competitiveness (β = 0.546, p < 0.05), explaining 22.5% of the variation in competitiveness among the universities.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: Knowledge storage capability can be improved by adopting secure, scalable, and user-friendly digital repositories. Proper documentation of research outputs, training materials, and policy documents will help preserve institutional knowledge and ensure long-term strategic advantage for universities.
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