Doctoral Thesis Defense in Management and Innovation by Mr. Olugbenga Ayo OJUBANIRE

Euromed University of Fes (UEMF) is pleased to inform the public 

of the doctoral thesis defense in   "Management, Innovation and Entrepreneurship"

The thesis defense will take place on Friday, June 20, 2025 at 10:00 AM at UEMF 

Location: the Large Hall of the Incubator (LOC001994)

The thesis will be presented by Mr. Olugbenga Ayo OJUBANIRE

Under the title:

“Determinants of Smart Factory Model Adoption among Industrial Enterprises in Emerging Economies: A Comparative Study of the Automotive Industry in Nigeria and Morocco”

 

Abstract 

This thesis examines the key factors that promote the adoption of smart factory technologies in the automotive industries of Nigeria and Morocco, in the context of the global transformation driven by Industry 4.0. Through a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research, the study offers an in-depth analysis of the challenges and opportunities faced by emerging economies in integrating smart factory solutions.

The research identifies organizational readiness and capabilities as the main drivers of adoption in both countries, highlighting the importance of well-structured strategies and committed leadership in integrating smart factory technologies. Technological factors also play a decisive role, notably the need to keep pace with rapidly evolving innovations. However, the study reveals that environmental factors have a relatively lesser impact, with complex business ecosystems sometimes acting as a barrier to adoption.

A comparative analysis between Nigeria and Morocco highlights regional differences in the adoption process. In Morocco, organizational structure proves more influential, while Nigeria faces both technological and organizational obstacles. These results emphasize the importance of strategies tailored to specific contexts, taking into account the challenges and opportunities unique to each country for implementing smart factory technologies.

Drawing on the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) theoretical framework, this study contributes to the academic debate on the adoption of smart factories in emerging economies. It proposes practical recommendations for industry stakeholders, policymakers and practitioners, aiming to strengthen organizational readiness, adopt technological advances and harmonize business environments. Ultimately, this work highlights the transformative potential of smart factory technologies, offering a roadmap for sustainable industrial growth and increased competitiveness in emerging economies.

 

This thesis will be presented before the jury members:

Last name and First name	Institution	Position
Pr. Adel BEN YOUSSEF	UCA	President
Pr. Abdelouahid ASSAIDI	LU	Rapporteur
Pr. Hugues LEVECQ	ESSEC	Rapporteur
Pr. Sunday OLALEYE	JAMK	Rapporteur
Pr. Tijani BOUNAHMIDI	UEMF	Examiner
Pr. Salim BOUNOU	UEMF	Examiner
Pr. Hicham SEBTI	UEMF	Thesis Supervisor
Pr. Sabrina BERBAIN	ISG	Thesis Co-Director