Change and Innovation Management for Successful Implementation of Post Covid-19 Reforms in Rivers State-Owned Universities

Abstract:

The study examined change and innovation management for successful implementation of post COVID-19 reforms in Rivers State-owned universities. Three objectives and three research questions guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study comprised all 100 heads of departments in Rivers State-owned universities: 65 from Rivers State University and 35 from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education. A simple random sampling technique was used to engage 73% of the entire population in the study. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled, “Change and Innovation Management for Successful Implementation of post COVID-19 Reforms in Rivers State-owned universities (CIMSIEP). The reliability of the instrument was established using Cronbach's alpha internal consistency method. The average reliability index obtained for Sections A, B, and C respectively was 0.73. Mean and standard deviation statistics were used to answer the research questions. The findings from this study aimed to investigate change and innovation management in the successful implementation of post COVID-19 reforms in Rivers State-owned universities, focusing on the adoption of digital learning platforms, professional development in innovative pedagogical approaches, and the impact of adherence to change among staff members. The study revealed that the adoption of digital learning platforms improves the successful implementation of post COVID-19 reforms in Rivers State-owned universities. The study recommends among others that universities should continue investing in robust digital infrastructure to support remote and hybrid learning, which includes ensuring widespread access to high-speed internet, updating technological resources, and implementing user-friendly digital platforms.