Abstract:
The integration of digital leadership in education is increasingly recognized as a key driver of technology
adoption and instructional transformation. This study explores how digital leadership practices are
implemented in secondary schools within the Bwaila Cluster, Lilongwe, Malawi, focusing on leadership
strategies, challenges, and the effectiveness of digital adoption. Despite efforts through national initiatives
like the Digital Malawi Project and MGDS III, progress in digital transformation remains slow, primarily
due to limited resources, inadequate ICT infrastructure, and disparities in access between schools. The
study’s main objective was to assess how school leadership facilitates the adoption of digital technologies
to enhance teaching and learning outcomes. Grounded in Transformational Leadership Theory and
Diffusion of Innovation Theory, the study analyzes how school leaders influence digital integration and
navigate barriers to technology adoption. A mixed-methods research design was employed, incorporating
quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with school administrators, teachers, and students.
Statistical methods were used to identify numerical trends, while thematic analysis provided deeper
insights into perceptions of digital leadership. Findings indicate that 73% of respondents faced challenges
in digital learning, citing limited access to devices, poor internet connectivity, and inadequate training.
Financial constraints (45%) and insufficient professional development (41%) were identified as major
barriers. However, 82% of participants reported positive experiences with digital learning, emphasizing
its potential to improve student engagement and academic performance. Transformational leadership was
found to be moderately or extensively applied by 56% of respondents, reflecting growing but inconsistent
digital leadership practices. Additionally, 50% of participants agreed that digital leadership had a direct
impact on student learning outcomes. The study concludes that while digital leadership is crucial for
enhancing education, effective implementation requires greater investment in ICT infrastructure,
increased funding, and sustained teacher training programs. Addressing these challenges can accelerate
digital transformation in Malawi’s secondary schools, ensuring greater accessibility, improved learning
experiences, and more equitable education opportunities for students.
