Knowledge Management Concepts and Applications in HEIs in East Africa

Higher learning institutions need to implement KM strategies appropriate for the demands of an ever-changing environment. However, successful implementation of KM in HEIs depends on a clear understanding of the application and benefits of its concepts, which should guide the formulation of a sound KM strategy. In this chapter, KM is examined from an organisational perspective where its concepts, applications, and benefits in higher education institutions in East Africa are discussed, and the place of a KM strategy in an organisational setting is explained as an “optimisation strategy.” A discussion of KM infrastructure and process capability and gaps is then followed by possible mitigation measures. An explanation of how KM implementation in HE institutions in East Africa could support organisation development is followed by a conclusion and implications for theory and practice.