Impact of the Pandemic on Higher Education in Emerging Countries: Emerging Opportunities, Challenges and Research Agenda

Abstract

The impact of COVID-19 on higher education cannot be overemphasised. With social distancing being in place and the increased use of technology, this paper presents opportunities for universities in emerging countries to meet the growing demand of prospective students who may not be able to travel abroad for their higher education, opportunities to improve the quality of education and build a partnership, albeit virtually with different Universities around the world. In addition, challenges that are specific to higher education in emerging countries which includes inadequate internet facilities and nonconductive home learning environment we also discussed. The paper finally recognises the need for more research to understand and provide theoretical and practical insight on how Universities in emerging economies can deal with the aftermath of the pandemic.

Keywords: COVID-19, Pandemic, Higher Education, University, Research Agenda, Emerging Countries