This study focused on describing the crises of COVID 19 and institutional responses to manage the crises in public HEIs of Ethiopia. A case study research design was employed to conduct the qualitative study. Respondents were purposively selected and the interview was used to gather adequate and relevant data for the study. The finding of the study revealed that HEIs lack institutional capacity and readiness to provide internet-based online learning; academic staffs and students also lack the experience, commitment, readiness, and competence to use online learning ; HEIs lack digital learning policies, plans, and resources, and absence of adequate ICT infrastructure and internet access to effectively respond to pandemic. Thus, it was concluded that online learning was not effectively practiced; delivery systems established were not inclusive and efficient in providing equitable access to the instructional needs of students. Thus, it was recommended that intuitional level digital/ICT /e-learning policies and guidelines need to be developed; autonomy needs to be granted to set directions, develop and implement emergency plans based on their local context. Besides, HEIs should revise and include ICT competency development in academic staff professional development programs, revise course delivery modalities, and intentionally include online courses for students.

Keywords: COVID 19, Institutional Response, Higher Education Institution, Pandemic