Objective: To investigate whether Virtual Internationalization (VI) can help universities in the Global South overcome the challenges of internationalizing higher education and strengthen institutional strategies.
Design/methodology/approach: A bibliographic and documentary review was conducted, selecting two lines of investigation across three databases (Web of Science, Eric, and Scopus). The analysis focused on identifying trends and impacts of VI in higher education institutions in the Global South.
Results: Three main findings emerged: i) VI initiatives enhance teaching quality and global perspectives, as well as improve teaching policies, research collaboration, and institutional networks; ii) the increasing use of online platforms supports international cooperation in teaching and research; iii) the persistent North-South technological divide hinders equity in access and implementation of VI.
Research limitations: The study reveals a gap in the literature on VI’s effects in Latin American and African countries, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies tailored to local contexts.
Originality/value: This research highlights VI as a strategic tool for reducing inequalities in higher education, fostering collaboration, and strengthening institutional development in the Global South.
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