Assessing ICT Competencies and Their Role in Facilitating Electronic Resource Access in Higher Education

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become indispensable in transforming higher education, enabling faculty members to access, evaluate, and utilize a variety of electronic resources. The ability to effectively navigate digital platforms depends largely on faculty ICT competencies, which include knowledge, skills, and attitudes towards technology. This paper explores the role of ICT competencies in facilitating access to electronic resources, presents a conceptual understanding of ICT literacy, and examines how these competencies influence academic and research practices. Additionally, it highlights institutional factors such as infrastructure, training, policy support, and technical assistance that enhance or hinder ICT competency development among faculty. Strengthening ICT competencies contributes not only to the efficient use of electronic resources but also to improved academic productivity, teaching innovation, and institutional quality. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to foster a digitally competent academic workforce in higher education.