SMART CAMPUSES AND THEIR ECONOMIC POTENTIALITIES TO NIGERIA: A CASE STUDY OF PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN EBONYI STATE

Abstract

The concept of smart campuses has gained significant attention in recent years, with potential economic benefits for institutions and surrounding communities. This study investigates the economic potentialities of smart campuses in public universities in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, with a stratified random sample of 210 staffers and 90 students from the three public universities in the state, bringing the total population and of the sample size of the study to 300. Six research questions were formulated to guide the study. A questionnaire instrument was used to collect data, which was analyzed using mean and percentage. The study reveals that smart campuses have significant economic potentialities, including job creation, increased investment, and improved infrastructure. However, challenges such as inadequate funding, infrastructure, and technical expertise hinder the implementation of smart campus initiatives. The study concludes that smart campuses can contribute significantly to the economic development of Nigeria, particularly in Ebonyi State. Recommendations include increased funding, infrastructure development, and capacity building for staff and students.