Abstract
The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) and its concomitant disruptions is rapidly changing the world we live in. It is imperative for school leaders to be aware of the impact of 4IR on education and to take on the challenge of ensuring that their institutions are 4IR compliant. In most developing countries like Nigeria, school leaders faced the challenge of learning losses due to the global pandemic. The need for 4IR awareness became an imperative as schools were forced to engage with whatever technology resources were available during a time of crisis. Post the pandemic, a continued focus on integrating 4IR into education must be supported and maintained. Hence, this study sought to explore possible solutions to a lack of awareness and readiness of 4IR amongst the school principals in Nigerian Secondary Schools. This study is located in a constructivist research paradigm, through the lens of qualitative research approach. A phenomenological research design with the use of observations, document analysis and semi-structured interviews were employed to ascertain answers to the research focus of this study. Complexity Leadership Theory offered the theoretical lens through which the data in this study was analysed. The overall findings reveal low levels of awareness and readiness for 4IR amongst school leaders in general. However, young school leaders seemed better prepared for 4IR than their older more experiencedcounterparts. This was because of a lack of funding, 4IR skillsand technology infrastructure, often exacerbated with an irregular electricity supply. The threat of cyber insecurity and lack of motivationwere perceived challenges that hindered awareness and readiness for 4IR amongst school leaders. Therefore, this study recommends public awareness, seminars and workshops, the recruitment and training of teachers, provision of infrastructure, constant monitoring and motivation of staff, and efforts to increase networks with global experts as possible solutions to creating adequate awareness and readiness for 4IR amongst school leaders of Nigerian Secondary Schools.
Keywords:
4IR, Digital Leadership, Complexity Leadership Theory, Future-Fit Leadership, 4C’s, Digital Divide