From disruption to redirection

A critical review of the pandemic’s impact on international education and south asian student mobility

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/c7b3p465

Keywords:

Adaptation, Hybrid Learning, EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion), International Student Mobility, South Asia

Abstract

The international sector of higher education has been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, as it has interrupted the mobility of students, activities, and academic purposes across the globe. This paper synthesizes the emerging results of 2020 to examine the changes in preferences among international students and institutional long-term policies in South Asia. This case proposes global student mobility as an example of shifting educational preferences, obstacles to e-connectivity, and the need to respond quickly to policy changes. This review synthesizes qualitative research studies and policy reports, identifying four major themes: travel restrictions, online learning, mental health, and hiring practices. It also determines the degree of an institution’s preparedness, depending on the Hybrid learning design and the degree of student support. The study also provides more information about the educational situation in the post-pandemic world, and how the world can generate inclusive, equitable, and resilient globalization in the future.

Author Biographies

  • Md. Saddam Hossain, Khulna University, Bangladesh

    Md. Saddam Hossain is District Child Affairs Officer at the Bangladesh Shishu Academy, Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, and a PhD researcher in English Linguistics at Khulna University. His research investigates how co-curricular activities enhance EFL proficiency and ensure holistic development among secondary-level students in Bangladesh. He has been nominated for the prestigious Prime Minister’s Education Assistance Trust Fellowship in recognition of his doctoral work. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed journal articles, contributed to an international book on AI in English education, and presented at national and international conferences. His interests include ELT, applied linguistics, equity, and child development.

  • Farhana Yeasmin, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh

    Farhana Yeasmin is an Assistant Professor of English at Jashore University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh. Since 2017, she has taught undergraduate and postgraduate courses, focusing on a learner-centered approach to enhance confidence, fluency, and critical engagement. She holds BA and MA degrees from Khulna University, where she graduated with first-class first positions. Currently pursuing a PhD under a UGC fellowship, her research interests include English language teaching, language policy, TALT, MALT, and world literature. Farhana has published extensively on language pedagogy, cultural studies, and feminist literature.

  • Md. Shahjahan Kabir, Khulna University, Bangladesh

    Dr. Md. Shahjahan Kabir is a professor and head of the English Discipline at Khulna University. With a deep passion for teaching English language, linguistics, and literature, he excels at engaging students of diverse backgrounds and abilities. Known for his dedication, Dr. Kabir fosters a positive, energetic environment that motivates students to perform at their highest potential. He has published thirteen articles in prestigious journals. His research interests include linguistics, English Language Teaching (ELT), CALT, CALL, TALT, MALT, MALL, curriculum development, as well as poetry and drama.

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Published

2026-02-21

Issue

Vol. 16 No. 7 (2026): Journal of International Students

Section

Institutional Global Footprints, Enrollment Trends, and Emerging Issues

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How to Cite

Hossain, M. S., Yeasmin, F., & Kabir, M. S. . (2026). From disruption to redirection: A critical review of the pandemic’s impact on international education and south asian student mobility. Journal of International Students, 16(7), 21-46. https://doi.org/10.32674/c7b3p465