Private universities in South Africa can finally claim the title of 'university'

In a historic advancement for higher education in South Africa, private universities can now officially adopt the title of "university" following the recent gazetting of the Policy for the Recognition of South African Higher Education Institutional Types by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

This pivotal reform aligns with global educational standards that emphasise quality over ownership.

The recognition of private institutions as universities marks a transformative shift in the South African tertiary landscape, concluding years of advocacy for equitable treatment among higher education providers.

The department’s move acknowledges that a university's stature should be defined by its academic excellence, governance, and contributions to research and community engagement rather than its public or private ownership.

Dr Linda Meyer, Managing Director of IIE Rosebank College, said, “The title ‘university’ should reflect quality and governance, not ownership.”

New institutional classifications

The newly introduced policy establishes a transparent framework for categorising higher education institutions into three distinct types: Higher Education Colleges, University Colleges, and Universities. These classifications apply equally to both public and private institutions, providing a clear pathway for private entities to gain recognition within the higher education sector, which currently reflects a 22% market share from private higher education institutions (PHEIs).

Higher Education Colleges focus primarily on undergraduate education and skills development, offering Higher Certificates, Diplomas, and select Bachelor's Degrees.

University Colleges provide a limited range of undergraduate and professional qualifications and strive towards achieving full university status.

Universities are defined as larger institutions offering a comprehensive array of qualifications from Higher Certificates to Doctoral Degrees, characterised by robust research engagement and community impact.

With this change, the department and Council on Higher Education (CHE) are set to implement a stringent, transparent process for institutions to apply for recognition. Institutions must showcase a diverse range of accredited qualifications, demonstrate sound governance, and maintain a record of teaching excellence and community interaction.

Enhancing access and collaboration

This landmark recognition represents a stride toward equity, inclusion, and diversification within South Africa’s post-school education framework. Private universities play a critical role in bridging the gap in higher education access amid soaring demand. They are often more agile and responsive to current industry needs, making them crucial partners in driving national socio-economic development.

In a country where the public sector faces capacity constraints, private universities offer vital pathways that absorb many students otherwise left with no means to pursue tertiary education.

Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela remarked on the importance of this reform: “The future of higher education is collaborative, inclusive, and excellence-driven.”

This change is set to foster new opportunities for collaboration between public and private universities, with expectations of shared research initiatives, staff exchanges, and articulation agreements. Such co-operation will not only enhance South Africa's innovation and research outcomes, but also solidify its standing in the global knowledge economy.