The role of digital leadership in enhancing E-knowledge, organizational agility and innovation to drive digitalization in higher education

Purpose This research study conducts an empirical investigation into the role of digital leadership (DL) in shaping e-knowledge (EK) and organizational agility (OA) for innovative growth in organizations. In the current era of digitalization, the roles and responsibilities of contemporary leaders are being redefined. They must possess digital competence and a clear vision for utilizing technology to facilitate and adapt organizational innovation (OI) to meet current societal needs. Design/methodology/approach The researchers applied quantitative methods grounded in cross-sectional data. The teaching faculty of various higher educational institutions (HEIs) in Pakistan was selected using a purposive sampling technique through the survey questionnaire. A total of 285 useable cases were found authentic for further analysis. Findings By applying the structural equation modelling, the findings of the study demonstrate a significant positive impact of DL on EK, OA and OI. Besides, EK and OA emerge as mediators between DL and OI. Practical implications The findings provide significant guidelines to policymakers and university authorities, as DL helps ensure that both students and staff are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the digital world. By embedding EK into the curriculum and creating an agile learning environment, institutions prepare their graduates for success in the ever-changing global environment. DL can also assist HEIs in quickly adopting the changes and innovations in teaching, research and administration to become more competitive. Originality/value This study assists in understanding DL by integrating the theoretical perspectives from digital transformation and organizational learning to explain how DL plays an influential role towards EK, OA and their collective impact on fostering the OI in HEIs. This research has developed a conceptual framework that connects these factors through a theoretical lens, offering new insights into systems like leadership behaviour with institutional innovation in the context of digitalization.