Leveraging Open-Source Learning Management Systems (LMS) for Resilient and Inclusive Higher Education in Ghana: Lessons from the Sakai LMS Journey

Abstract

Over the past decade, the Sakai Learning Management System (LMS) has played a central role in 
advancing digital learning at the University of Ghana, offering insights for higher education in 
Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite adoption, institutions face challenges including high costs, limited 
scalability, accessibility gaps, and constraints on technological autonomy. Proprietary LMS 
solutions often restrict customisation, limiting alignment with local pedagogical, cultural, and 
infrastructural needs. This article examines the potential of open-source LMS platforms to foster 
resilient, inclusive, and sustainable digital learning, using Sakai as a case study. Guided by 
Dynamic Capabilities Theory, the paper employed qualitative approach, including semi-structured 
interviews with ten purposively selected participants: three LMS administrators, three instructors 
or e-learning leads, three teaching and learning policy leads, and one faculty champion. Findings        
reveal that Sakai enhances institutional resilience by maintaining continuity of instruction during 
disruptions and supporting flexible pedagogical approaches. The platform promotes inclusion 
through mobile access, adaptable content, and mentorship-driven adoption, though challenges 
persist in faculty training, technical support, and policy enforcement. Sustainability depends on 
strategic governance, funding, capacity development, and engagement with global open-source 
communities. The study contributes by demonstrating how open-source LMS platforms function 
as dynamic organisational capabilities, enabling higher education institutions to respond to 
evolving challenges, advance digital inclusion, and leverage technology for effective and 
sustainable teaching and learning. 
Keywords: Sakai, open-source LMS; higher education; digital inclusion; Dynamic Capabilities 
Theory; Ghana. 
Date of submission: 16th,August 2025; Date of acceptance: 22, June  2026 
Date of publication: 29th July 2026 
url: https://mjdesjournal.com/index.php/mjdes/issue/view/4 
*Corresponding author: *Yvette Akuorkor Afowa Ussher 
Citation: Azanku, B. A., Adjei, R. A. & Ussher, Y. A. A. (2026). Leveraging Open-Source 
Learning Management Systems (LMS) for Resilient and Inclusive Higher Education in Ghana: 
Lessons from the Sakai LMS Journey. Multidisciplinary Journal of Distance Education Studies, 
2026, 4(SI), 74-92.