Exploring The Relationship Between Entrepreneurial Ambidexterity and Academic Performance: The Moderating Role of Digital Capabilities: Evidence from Public Universities of Duhok Governance, Kurdistan of Iraq

This study examines the impact of entrepreneurial ambidexterity, and the synchronization of exploratory and exploitative activities, on academic performance in university departments, and the role of digital capabilities in moderating this impact. Using a descriptive analytical approach, a questionnaire was distributed to 145 department heads at public universities in Duhok Governorate, Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The data were validated using SPSS version 29 and SmartPLS 4.1.1, both of which confirmed the study's hypotheses. The results revealed a direct, statistically significant, positive correlation between entrepreneurial ambidexterity and departmental academic performance. Furthermore, digital capabilities were found to have a significant positive performance-modifying effect, enhancing the impact of ambidexterity on the performance of departments with higher digital proficiency. These findings carry potential policy implications for higher education institutions and government bodies in Iraq, suggesting that fostering digital transformation and balanced entrepreneurial practices can enhance academic performance and institutional competitiveness.