H. Kader Şanlıöz-Özgen collaborated with an academician from Dokuz Eylül University to study the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on distance education (DE) within tourism-related higher education programs (THEP). This research aligns with SDG 4’s goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education by examining the rapid shift to DE, particularly the challenges and opportunities it presented for higher education institutions. Using qualitative methods, data from 114 instructors were gathered to capture a range of experiences during this transition, especially in developing countries where limited internet infrastructure and access to technology posed significant hurdles. Through SWOT and TOWS analyses, the study proposes strategic recommendations for regulatory authorities to develop more effective educational, tactical, and operational plans that strengthen resilience and adaptability in higher education—a key objective of SDG 4.