Reimagining institutional teputation

Crisis-teady internationalization strategies for post-COVID higher education

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/8e897427

Keywords:

Higher education internationalization, Institutional reputation, Servicce delivery, Way-power, Crisis management

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant vulnerabilities in higher education internationalisation, thereby highlighting the need for more resilient, equitable and crisis-responsive approaches to global engagement. This study examines how higher education institutions (HEIs) can strengthen institutional reputation and internationalisation strategies in the post-pandemic era through the concept of institutional waypower. Adopting a constructivist grounded theory approach, the study employed qualitative documentary analysis for peer-reviewed literature, institutional reports, policy documents and international briefs published between 2020 and 2024. The analysis identified eight interrelated structural adjustment constructs that underpin crisis-resilient internationalisation: crisis-prepared learning management systems (LMSs), technology investment and digital infrastructure, student support and well-being services, internationalisation strategy and intercultural competence, institutional stability and agile governance, ethical stewardship and community engagement, curriculum innovation and responsiveness, and resource development and diversification.

Author Biographies

  • Lizl Steynberg, Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa

    LIZL STEYNBERG is a lecturer and researcher in the Department of Management and Entrepreneurship at the Faculty of Management Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), Pretoria, South Africa. Her research focuses on the internationalization of higher education and research methodology, and she collaborates with researchers in fields such as entrepreneurship, small business management, and local economic development. Email: steynbergl@tut.ac.za

  • Dr. Jan P. Grundling, University of Johannesburg, South Africa

    JAN GRUNDLING is a Senior Research Associate at the Center for Local Economic Development at the University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa. His primary research interests include linear programming, optimization and control, industrial statistics, and entrepreneurship. Email: jangrundling@gmail.com

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Published

2026-08-19

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Research Articles (English, regular edition)

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How to Cite

Steynberg, L., & Grundling, J. (2026). Reimagining institutional teputation: Crisis-teady internationalization strategies for post-COVID higher education. Journal of International Students, 16(18), 213-236. https://doi.org/10.32674/8e897427