UTILIZATION OF AI-DRIVEN THREAT DETECTION TOOLS FOR CYBER-SECURITY IN BUSINESS EDUCATION PROGRAMMES IN UNIVERSITIES IN SOUTH-EAST NIGERIAN: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

The study aimed to assess the opportunities and challenges of using AI-driven threat detection tools for cybersecurity in Business Education Programmes at universities in South-East Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population consisted of 82 Business Educators from seven public universities in South-East Nigeria. Due to the manageable population size, the entire population was studied, and no sampling was conducted. Data were collected using a structured 20-item questionnaire, with 74 responses received out of 82. The instrument was validated by three research experts, and their feedback was incorporated to enhance its validity. Two research questions and two null hypotheses were formulated and tested at a significance level of 0.05. The Cronbach’s alpha reliability method was used, yielding an overall reliability coefficient of 0.82. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions, while t-test statistics were employed to test the hypotheses. The findings indicate that AI-driven threat detection tools offer opportunities such as protecting intellectual property, enhancing institutional reputation, safeguarding data, encouraging wider adoption, benefiting from real-time monitoring, preparing students for future digital workplaces, and detecting and preventing cyber threats. The study also identified challenges including inadequate ICT infrastructure, limited technical expertise, resistance to technological change, and poor structural facilities in universities. The researchers recommended, among other things, that advocacy for AI-driven threat detection tools is essential in business education programmes to safeguard intellectual property and enhance the reputation of higher education institutions. Additionally, awareness programmes should be implemented to overcome resistance to technological change and promote acceptance of AI-driven cybersecurity systems among educators and stakeholders.