Digital Technologies for Strategic Transformation in Higher Education: Governance, Innovation, and Competitiveness in the Global Era

This study explores the transformative role of digital technologies in the context of globalization and their impact on higher education governance, innovation, and competitiveness. Drawing on a mixed-methods approach, the research involved a survey of ten university presidents from public and private institutions in Madrid, Spain. The data, analyzed using NVivo and text mining techniques, reveal how the integration of information and communication technologies (ICTs), data analytics, and digital platforms enhances strategic decision-making, supports global citizenship development, and fosters institutional sustainability. Findings highlight that digital tools enable real-time data-driven governance, facilitate cross-cultural learning experiences, and redefine the university’s third mission through expanded digital outreach and societal engagement. Knowledge management, guided by the SECI model, emerges as a critical factor for driving innovation and organizational agility. Entrepreneurial universities leveraging predictive analytics and automation show greater financial resilience and adaptability in the knowledge economy. While the study is limited by its geographic scope and qualitative design, it provides valuable insights into the strategic use of digital infrastructure in higher education. The research calls for broader comparative and longitudinal studies to deepen understanding and guide policy. Ultimately, it positions digital transformation as a cornerstone of institutional relevance and leadership in the 21st century