THE ROLE OF DIGITAL LEADERSHIP IN DRIVING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ADOPTION AND INNOVATIVE BEHAVIOUR FOR SUSTAINABLE EDUCATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS

Abstract

In the era of rapid digital transformation, educational institutions face increasing pressure to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and foster innovation to maintain sustainable competitiveness. This study aims to analyze the role of digital leadership in encouraging AI adoption and innovative behavior within educational settings, with a focus on SMP Islam Nurul Fikri Boarding School Lembang, Indonesia. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, data were collected through interviews, observations, and document analysis involving principals, vice principals, teachers, and IT staff. The findings reveal that digital leadership provides a clear strategic vision for digital transformation, fostering teachers to demonstrate varying levels of innovative behavior influenced by leadership commitment and resource availability. The study concludes that digital leadership acts as a critical catalyst for sustainable educational competitiveness, emphasizing the need for structured digital policies and continuous capacity building to ensure long-term impact.