Abstract
This study examined how principals affect digital transformation in King Cetshwayo schools. Given the fast rise of digital technology and its influence on educational practices, school leadership must understand how to drive and manage this transition. To understand principals' experiences, techniques and viewpoints on digital transformation, a purposive sampling strategy was used. This qualitative study included semi-structured interviews with 15 King Cetshwayo school principals. The qualitative technique and concentration on principals in a particular geographical region were used to explain the complex dynamics of leading schools through the digital era and leadership's efficacy. According to the report, principals drive digital change via visionary leadership, strategic planning and creating a supportive and creative teaching environment. Principals were crucial in addressing technological equity, change resistance and digital tool integration into pedagogy. Successful experiences from participants showed how principals' dedication to professional growth, stakeholder participation and a digital culture can transform programmes. Based on these findings, the study recommends technology integration leadership capacity building, educator professional development, strategic infrastructure and access improvements, active stakeholder engagement and comprehensive monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.