Title: Digital Capability, Professional Competence And Intergenerational Knowledge Transfer In Public Administration: Lessons From University Governance In Nigeria
Authors: BABATUNDE OLAWALE OGUNSOLA(Ph.D.), ADELAKIN PETER ADEGBITE
Volume: 10
Issue: 9
Pages: 102-109
Publication Date: 2026/09/28
Abstract:
Digital transformation has become central to public administration, yet the acquisition of digital tools does not automatically improve institutional performance. Debate within university administration is often reduced to a contest between the technological fluency of newer officers and the procedural competence of experienced officers. This framing obscures organisational conditions and encourages age based stereotypes. This conceptual paper draws on an integrative review of literature on digital government, technology acceptance, organisational learning, public value and age diverse knowledge exchange. The analysis is guided by the Technology Acceptance Model, Generational Theory, organisational learning and public value perspectives. Central Argument: Administrative effectiveness depends on the alignment of technology, professional judgement, institutional memory, accountability and service outcomes. Capability is distributed across people, processes and systems rather than fixed within age groups. Conclusion: Nigerian universities and comparable public institutions require an integrated administrative capability approach that joins digital skills with procedural, ethical and relational competence. The paper reframes the alleged generational gap as a public management problem involving work design, knowledge continuity and institutional capability. Recommendations focus on strengthening digital transformation governance, promoting role based competence and reciprocal mentoring, adopting evidence based and age inclusive personnel practices, developing effective institutional memory systems, and evaluating administrative reforms according to their contribution to public value.