CBPM Conference 2026 · Vol. 2026, Issue 1

Impediments hindering higher education Institutions in readiness for future pandemics: A case of Eastern Cape province, South Africa

Vuyokazi Luthuli, Justus Ngala Agumba, Olubumni Ilori

Keywords: Future pandemic, Higher Education Institutions, Impediments, Readiness.

Abstract

Higher institutions of learning are critical to the generation of knowledge among a country’s citizens. Despite their importance to knowledge empowerment, they are not immune to future pandemic occurrences. Therefore, this study aims to determine the barriers hindering higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Eastern Cape readiness for future pandemics. A qualitative research method was adopted to achieve the study’s aim. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews with seven respondents who were purposively sampled from two public universities. Thematic analysis was used to identify the impediments after the data were transcribed. The findings revealed that institutions readiness is constrained by a lack of governance structures, inconsistent operational preparedness, poorly communicated emergency response plans, and uneven institutional capacity. Although HEIs demonstrated adaptability during COVID-19, particularly by continuing academic activities through digital platforms, their preparedness was largely reactive rather than proactive. The absence of institutionalised disaster management frameworks, limited training, and gaps in policy implementation were identified as critical barriers to effective pandemic readiness. The study’s geographical focus was the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, and its reliance on semi-structured interviews prevented the results from being generalised. These barriers reveal the need for sustainable institutional commitment, resource investment, and clear accountability structures.