This issue invites us to review the current situation of higher education in Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as the challenges that must be addressed both by national systems and by the institutions themselves. This issue of ESS consists of the thematic dossier, the general section and an article written by a researcher who speaks one of the native languages of Latin America and the Caribbean. In general terms, the articles in this issue highlight the role that higher education plays in the development of our societies and in the construction of a promising future for all people throughout their lives. Issues such as inclusion, equity, quality, relevance, democratization, and internationalization are crucial to ensure that our educational institutions are prepared to face the challenges of the 21st century. For this reason, this issue presents a thematic dossier that addresses a topic of vital importance for the future of higher education.