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INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] CHALLENGES CONFRONTING MULTI-CAMPUS INSTITUTIONS GIVEN SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT LACUNA

This qualitative study examines the experiences of undergraduate students at the University of The Free State to ascertain ICT teaching-learning challenges resulting from the abrupt switch to e-learning in developing countries vis-à-vis the effects of social development lacuna. The finding revealed a lack of learning devices by some students, internet connectivity issues, high data cost, need to upgrade the technological knowhow of education participants, limited classroom engagements due to large classes, and a lack of foundational social development facilities that can augment smooth transition into the post-pandemic predictable future of education. The study recommends that (1) disadvantaged background students lacking learning devices be assisted; (2) the University continue to strengthen blended learning; ICT upskilling for the students and staff; increase investment in ICT and maintain continuous training to improve staff’s technological skills; (3) reduce large class sizes; and (4) indulge in more collaboration towards solving the problems of resource constraints. The also recommends that the mental health of students be monitored frequently given the pressure of enduring hectic COVID-19-induced challenges relating to the abrupt switch to e-learning. The study anticipates setbacks regarding the use of ICT in teaching and learning going into the post-pandemic. It, therefore, recommends an upgrade of social development, especially in the area of ICT infrastructure and digitalisation in developing nations.