In a historic move for South Africa’s tertiary sector, the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) enacted a new policy that, for the first time. This policy allows private institutions to be officially recognised as universities.
THE NEW UNIVERSITY POLICY
This landmark decision, gazetted on 17 October, marks a significant shift in the nation’s democratic history. It ends the exclusive use of the ‘university’ title by public institutions.
The Policy for the Recognition of South African Higher Education Institutional Types establishes a clear, equitable framework for both public and private sectors.
It introduces three distinct institutional categories: Higher Education Colleges, University Colleges, and Universities.
INCLUSIVITY AND ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
This reform aims to promote fairness, inclusivity, and academic excellence by judging an institution’s status on its quality and contributions rather than its ownership.
Dr Linda Meyer, Managing Director of IIE Rosebank College, welcomed the change. Linda stated that the title ‘university’ should reflect quality and governance, not ownership, according to IOL.
The policy acknowledges that a university’s calibre is defined by its academic rigour, research output, and community engagement.
HOW TO ACHIEVE UNIVERSITY STATUS
To achieve full status, private institutions must now undergo a stringent application process with the Council on Higher Education (CHE).
They must demonstrate a comprehensive range of accredited qualifications, according to University World News.
This can range from higher certificates to doctoral degrees, alongside proven research commitment and sound governance.
THE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM
This transformation is a major step towards enhancing access and collaboration in South Africa’s strained higher education system.
With private institutions already holding a 22% market share, this policy legitimises their crucial role in absorbing student demand and addressing industry needs.
It also paves the way for increased partnerships between public and private universities, fostering shared research and innovation to bolster the country’s global academic standing.
