Knowledge Management Capability and Competitiveness of Chartered Public Universities in Kenya

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between knowledge management capability (KMC) and the competitiveness of chartered public universities in Kenya. Despite their role as knowledge-intensive institutions, many public universities face challenges in leveraging knowledge assets strategically. Prior research has largely focused on commercial organizations, leaving a gap in understanding how KMC influences performance in higher education, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study was guided by five specific objectives: to assess the effect of knowledge creation, knowledge organization, knowledge sharing and knowledge storage capabilities on competitiveness, and to evaluate the moderating role of information technology in this relationship. A descriptive survey design was adopted, targeting all 31 chartered public universities in Kenya. Purposive sampling was used to select 155 middle-level managers across institutions, including registrars, deans, ICT officers, librarians, and finance officers. Primary data was collected using structured questionnaires, while secondary data on competitiveness indicators (citations, patents, enrollment) was extracted from institutional records and official databases. Out of 155 questionnaires distributed, 123 were returned, representing a 79% response rate. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including multivariate regression analysis. The findings revealed that all four KMC dimensions namely, knowledge creation, organization, sharing, and storage had a positive and significant influence on university competitiveness. Among them, knowledge sharing emerged as the strongest predictor, followed by organization, creation, and storage. Additionally, the study confirmed that information technology significantly moderates the relationship between KMC and competitiveness. The study concludes that universities must adopt structured frameworks that enhance knowledge creation, organization, sharing and storage supported by robust IT systems. Doing so will improve academic performance, innovation, and institutional responsiveness. The study recommends further research to explore similar dynamics in private universities and technical institutions to broaden the understanding of KMC in higher education.