Government Moves to Strengthen Ties With Private Universities

Gondwe believes the conversation around the role of private higher education has evolved significantly over the years.

The Department of Higher Education and Training is stepping up engagement with South Africa's private higher education sector as part of a broader effort to improve collaboration, expand educational opportunities and ensure the country's graduates are equipped for a rapidly changing economy.

Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Dr Mimmy Gondwe will lead a series of sector-wide discussions next week with private higher education institutions and industry associations, bringing together key stakeholders to explore ways of addressing challenges facing the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector.

Focus on Expanding Access and Improving Collaboration

The engagements, scheduled for 8 and 10 June, are intended to build stronger working relationships between government and private institutions while identifying practical solutions to issues affecting higher education.

A key focus of the discussions will be improving access to education and creating an environment that encourages responsible private investment in the sector. Officials also hope to strengthen cooperation on initiatives that can improve innovation, enhance programme quality and ensure graduates possess skills that align with labour market demands. According to the department, private institutions have become an important part of South Africa's higher education landscape and can play a valuable role in helping meet growing demand for quality education and training opportunities.

Protecting Students Through Compliance and Quality Assurance

Gondwe, who oversees private higher education institutions, has been closely involved in efforts to promote accountability and regulatory compliance within the sector. One of the department's key initiatives has been the Bogus Colleges Awareness Campaign, which aims to protect students from unregistered institutions and unaccredited programmes. The campaign encourages prospective students to verify that institutions are registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training and that their qualifications are approved by recognised quality assurance bodies.

These include the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and the Council on Higher Education (CHE). The upcoming meetings will focus on strengthening partnerships with legitimate institutions that meet regulatory requirements and contribute positively to the country's education system.

Private Sector Seen as Key Partner in Skills Development

Gondwe believes the conversation around the role of private higher education has evolved significantly over the years. She argues that the focus should now be on building stronger and more effective partnerships that support national development goals and inclusive economic growth. She also highlighted the importance of producing graduates who are prepared for a technology-driven economy where digital skills, innovation and adaptability are becoming increasingly important.

The first round of discussions on Monday will include representatives from ADvTECH's Rosebank International College, the South African Private Higher Education (SAPHE), the Association for Private Providers of Education, Training and Development (APPETD), the South African Business Schools Association (SABSA) and other private higher education organisations. The second session, taking place on Wednesday, will involve meetings with representatives from Regent Business School, STADIO, Eduvos and the Da Vinci Institute.

The engagements are expected to help shape future cooperation between government and private education providers as South Africa works to strengthen its higher education system and prepare students for the demands of the modern economy.