Enterprise Architecture in Higher Education for Digital Transformation: An Integrative Review for Fragile Contexts with Application to Yemen

<ns3:p>Background Enterprise Architecture (EA) is a crucial facilitator for the digital transformation of organizations; however, its implementation in the higher education sector of fragile states is still insufficiently studied. This gap makes it harder for policymakers and higher education leaders in countries like Yemen to carry out structured, sector-wide modernization. Methods This study utilizes a systematic integrative review methodology, adhering to PRISMA principles. We synthesized and analyzed 30 peer-reviewed articles and high-credibility reports published between 2010 and June 2025 to identify transferable EA frameworks, governance models, and implementation strategies pertinent to resource-constrained contexts in higher education. Results Our analysis confirms that the TOGAF framework is the most widely used, but it also indicates that successful public sector implementations depend on hybrid adaptations and federated governance models to attain a balance between central policy and institutional autonomy. The most important things that lead to success are strong executive sponsorship and a phased, pilot-led implementation. The primary problems are lack of resources and resistance from within the organization. The results also show a clear link between EA outcomes, such as improved efficiency and resilience, and the main goals of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Conclusions This review expands EA theory into the inadequately explored area of public administration in fragile contexts. In practice, it provides Yemen with a new, evidence-based, phased implementation pathway. This pathway affords higher education sector leaders a real policy and management tool to help them build strong and useful digital ecosystems in tough places.</ns3:p>