The 2nd Annual SAPHE Conference, held on 5–6 November at the IMM Graduate School, exceeded expectations, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees. The event was abuzz with activity, high-level discussions, and dynamic conversations centred on higher education (HE), with a particular focus on private higher education Under the theme, Leading innovation in Higher Education (HE), the Conference featured prominent keynote speakers, thought-provoking panel discussions, interactive workshops and insightful research presentations.

On Monday, 30 September, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, met with SAPHE to familiarise herself with the association’s achievements and challenges, and to foster stronger relations between the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and SAPHE. Dr Gondwe has been tasked with overseeing private higher education (PHE) institutions as part of her portfolio. According to SAPHE Chair, Dr Carin Stoltz-Urban, the introductory meeting was conducted in a collegial and positive spirit. "It was clear that the Deputy Minister is well-informed about the department's priorities and eager to cooperate with stakeholders in the private higher education sector, such as SAPHE," noted Dr Stoltz-Urban. Compliance, a significant focus given the recent deregistration of some PHEIs, was one of the key topics addressed. Dr Gondwe emphasised the critical role SAPHE can play in promoting compliance and good governance within the sector. She encouraged SAPHE to establish a resource centre to provide institutions with access to documents, advice and guidance on compliance matters, to compile best-practice guidelines, and offer capacity-building workshops, peer learning opportunities, and networking events for PHEIs. In addition, Dr Gondwe urged SAPHE members to conduct employability studies, specifically on job placement, highlighting the importance of measuring the impact of private higher education on job creation and inclusive socio-economic growth. She invited SAPHE members to an Employment and Investment Summit the department will be hosting in November which will involve key industry stakeholders. Representing SAPHE at the meeting were Dr Carin Stoltz-Urban, SAPHE CEO Nancy-Anne Anderson, and Shirley Ferndale from the IIE, who is also actively involved in the broader higher education sector through the Registrars' Forum, among other initiatives. The SAPHE team took the opportunity to present the association’s role and mandate, while also discussing issues such as disparities in the higher education sector and the policy on institutional types. The constructive meeting set a positive tone for future engagement. "As SAPHE, we are encouraged by the Deputy Minister’s willingness to support the private higher education sector, and we are dedicated to working with the DHET to advance quality higher education overall," said Dr Stoltz-Urban.

Private higher education institutions have long been at the forefront of innovation and progress. The 2nd SAPHE Conference, themed Innovation in Higher Education: The Role of the Private Education Sector, is set to provide the perfect platform for experts and colleagues to reflect, share, and explore the topic. Scheduled for 5-6 November at the IMM Graduate School in Parktown, Johannesburg, the conference programme promises to cater to various interests. Attendees can look forward to a lineup of high-profile guest speakers, engaging panel discussions, insightful presentations, workshops, and an awards cocktail event. A lineup of sterling speakers and stimulating discussions Keynote addresses by Sioux McKenna, Professor in Higher Education Studies at Rhodes University, and Dr Lucky Mathebula, widely recognised for his strategic thinking and policy expertise, will set the stage for thought-provoking and lively discussions on the future of African universities and the role of higher education in fostering sustainable socio-economic growth. The conference will also feature panel discussions on critical topics, including one on Shaping the discourse of a responsive Private Higher Education (PHE) sector and another on the integration of the Inner Development Goals (IDGs) as a complement to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the higher education context. These discussions aim to engage participants in meaningful and impactful dialogues. Presentations on diverse topics  Under the overarching theme of innovation in Higher Education, presentations will cover diverse topics, including cutting-edge approaches to teaching and learning, fit-for-purpose quality assurance, technology-driven solutions for Higher Education, and the evolving student experience and community engagement. The conference agenda will be comprised of workshops, exhibitions, and numerous networking opportunities. Registration for the conference opens in September, with SAPHE members enjoying discounted rates. For more information, please visit the SAPHE Conference website.

August is Women’s Month, and on the 9th, South Africa honours the more than 20 000 women who marched in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women. As SAPHE, we celebrate the remarkable women who have shaped our country and its history. This month, we also applaud SAPHE women in leadership who champion the transformative power of higher education in their respective institutions. We draw inspiration from SAPHE members Helen Bührs , CEO of Inscape, Prof. Divya Singh , Chief Academic Officer at STADIO, and Isabel Roos , Managing Director of Isa Carstens Academy. Recognising the potential and value of higher education, it has become the shears or tools they wield to shape futures. 

SAPHE members had the opportunity to engage with Dr Makhapa Makhafola, SAQA Chief Operating Officer, at its recent member meeting in May. In her welcoming remarks, Dr Carin Stoltz-Urban, Chairperson of SAPHE, highlighted the association’s commitment to fostering positive relationships with the regulators, aiming to create one diverse but united higher education system. The session underscored the value and importance of the partnership between the South African Qualifications Authority and SAPHE. Dr Makhafola echoed these sentiments, emphasising the shared vision of a fully integrated higher education system where public and private institutions collaborate effectively. As a passionate advocate for the recognition of prior learning (RPL), Dr Makhafola praised private HEIs for their flexibility and efforts to champion RPL. He acknowledged their role in broadening access and making HE more inclusive. Looking ahead, Dr Makhafola announced a forthcoming comprehensive review of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), spearheaded by SAQA. SAPHE will be involved in this crucial process, ensuring the voices and needs of the private HE sector are heard. Dr Makhafola covered several key issues during the discussion, such as the impending expiration of legacy qualifications, upcoming SAQA stakeholder workshops in the latter half of the year, and the importance of collaboration with SAPHE in combating bogus qualifications and exploring research opportunities.  Thanking Dr Makhafola for the valuable exchange, Dr Stoltz-Urban reiterated SAPHE's commitment to ongoing collaboration with SAQA.

The South African Private Higher Education (SAPHE) landscape is undergoing a shift in leadership! After a successful tenure as Chairperson, Dr Jannie Zaaiman is passing the baton to Dr Carin Stoltz-Urban. While Dr Zaaiman steps down as Chair due to other commitments, SAPHE is fortunate to retain his invaluable expertise as he continues to serve as a Board member. Dr Stoltz-Urban, who has served on the SAPHE Board heading the capacity-building portfolio, is a seasoned leader with a passion for higher education and a clear vision for the future. As SAPHE navigates the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, Dr Stoltz-Urban brings a wealth of experience and a dynamic approach to the role. Lasting contributions Dr Zaaiman, who served as Chairperson since January 2023, continued to lead SAPHE on its trajectory of growth. As a young association, SAPHE has managed to establish itself as the home for dynamic and progressive private higher education institutions (PHEIs) set to make a meaningful contribution to the higher education space. Moreover, SAPHE has fostered good relations with the regulatory bodies and become a respected stakeholder in higher education. During Dr Zaaiman’s tenure, SAPHE strengthened its relationship with regulatory bodies and Universities South Africa (USAf). The first SAPHE Conference was hosted with acclaim, attracting academics, researchers, and higher education stakeholders from across the country. The conference showcased PHEIs' research highlights. Member engagement and collaboration, as well as capacity-building initiatives, were key priorities. Additionally, SAPHE refreshed its image by revising its logo and revamping its website and communication platforms. Dr Zaaiman's leadership resulted in a string of successes for SAPHE. Taking over the reins, Dr Stoltz-Urban brings palpable enthusiasm and an inspiring clear vision. The higher education space is dynamic, with opportunities and unique challenges. Navigating this landscape will require both insight and grit, qualities that Dr Stoltz-Urban possesses in abundance. SAPHE’s new Chairperson shares some of her thoughts and insights with us. Vision statement from the Chairperson of SAPHE As the newly elected SAPHE Chairperson, I am both humbled and honoured to serve in this pivotal role. My vision for SAPHE closely aligns with our mission to advance the interests of private higher education institutions and contribute meaningfully to the broader landscape of higher education in South Africa. Vision and mission alignment SAPHE is dedicated to promoting quality, innovation, and integrity in private higher education. Our mission emphasises the need for a collaborative and inclusive approach to education that serves the diverse needs of our country. In 2024, I plan to drive initiatives that embody these principles, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of educational excellence and accessibility. Building supportive partnerships Building on the good work of my predecessors, one of my key priorities is to further strengthen our relationship with regulators such as the Council on Higher Education (CHE), the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). By fostering supportive partnerships with these bodies, we can ensure that private higher education institutions are not only compliant with regulations but also actively contributing to the development of a cohesive, integrated higher education system in South Africa. My goal is to facilitate open dialogues and collaborative efforts that bridge the gap between the public and private education sectors, creating a unified framework that benefits all students. Advocacy and raising awareness Advocacy is a cornerstone of my strategy as Chairperson. Raising awareness about the value and contributions of private higher education institutions is crucial. I aim to enhance our advocacy efforts by engaging with policymakers, educators, and the public to highlight the pivotal role our members play in the national education landscape. Through targeted campaigns and strategic partnerships, we will work to dispel misconceptions and emphasise the quality and diversity of educational opportunities provided by private institutions. Creating a value proposition for members Creating a compelling value proposition for SAPHE members is another key focus area. Our members should feel supported, valued, and empowered to achieve their institutional goals. I plan to introduce new member services, professional development opportunities, and platforms for sharing best practices. By fostering a strong community of practice, we can collectively elevate the standards and outcomes of private higher education in South Africa. Last word  I am deeply humbled to assume the role of Chairperson and am committed to making a significant impact in the sector. Together, we will work towards a diverse, integrated, and high-quality higher education system that serves the needs of our country. I look forward to collaborating with all stakeholders to advance our shared mission and vision for a brighter future in higher education.

Dr Shaheeda Essack, Director of Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs) at the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), shared valuable insights at the recent SAPHE member meeting in February. She highlighted key areas for continued success within the sector, which has grown significantly, now enrolling more than 20 per cent of all higher education students. Dr Essack, a seasoned expert in PHEI management and monitoring, focused on both business and academic operations. Sound business and academic operations Dr Essack underscored the importance of robust financial planning, effective systems, competent staff appointments, and the delivery of accredited, quality programmes. She cautioned against misrepresenting qualifications, a pitfall that could lead to deregistration. Mitigating Risks and Ensuring Compliance Regarding risk management, Dr Essack stressed the need to understand the PSET sector thoroughly, considering both internal and external factors shaping its past, present, and future. She advised PHEIs to learn from past experiences, identify future trends, and stay informed and compliant with relevant legislation and annual reporting requirements. Operational efficiency Dr Essack encouraged clear and transparent operations. She recommended that institutions maintain control over all their academic functions, including marketing and advertising, rather than outsourcing. Student engagement She advocated for transparent grievance policies and comprehensive student orientations that clarify procedures and refund policies. Before involving the DHET, students should first engage with the institution to seek an internal resolution. Dr Essack highlighted the importance of student representation on various levels, as mandated by the CHE. However, she clarified that representation does not equate to governing or managing the institution. She mentioned that student concerns were mainly in two areas, related to the contractual agreement and teaching and learning. Student feedback on teaching and learning was critical and useful for the institution in improving the quality of the learning programmes. Partnerships and policy Discussing public/private partnerships, Dr Essack emphasised the need for clarity on what such partnerships involve and a regulatory framework, acknowledging the absence of one currently. Responding to a query about the Policy for the Recognition of South African Higher Education Institutional Types, she said she anticipates its release for public comment by the end of March, with finalisation expected before the year's end.  In conclusion, Dr Essack commended PHEIs for their remarkable progress, encouraging them to continue their positive trajectory and “to walk the straight path”. Dr Jannie Zaaiman, Chair of the SAPHE Board, thanked Dr Essack for the insights she shared with SAPHE members and affirmed their commitment to good governance and collaboration.

2023 was a year of remarkable progress for SAPHE, marked by numerous impactful milestones and achievements. SAPHE Chairperson, Dr Jannie Zaaiman, says that guided by a shared vision for private higher education, SAPHE members collaborated effectively to advance not only the interests of PHEIs but also the broader landscape of higher education. “This included championing rigorous quality assurance, engaging in constructive dialogue with key regulatory bodies like the Council on Higher Education (CHE), the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), fostering valuable capacity-building activities for our members, and hosting a successful SAPHE conference, showcasing research projects undertaken by PHEIs”, says Dr Zaaiman. Globally, 2023 was a year of significant shifts, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) taking centre stage. Recognising its transformative potential, SAPHE established an AI task team to guide members in harnessing its potential responsibly. Closer to home, South Africa's higher education sector faces unique hurdles. The ever-growing demand for quality education is hampered by limited access and insufficient student funding. Additionally, there's concern that graduates lack the skills needed for the evolving job market. Dr Zaaiman emphasises that PHEIs, recognised for their flexibility and accessibility, are well-positioned to address these challenges and play a crucial role in shaping South African higher education. "Our members are committed to delivering high-quality education that caters to diverse needs and backgrounds, adhering to the highest standards," he affirms.  “As we step into 2024, SAPHE is looking forward to embracing its opportunities and tackling its challenges together. We will continue to support our members and believe that through collaboration, our institutions can draw on each other's strengths to unlock the full potential of private higher education in South Africa," says Dr Zaaiman. "Together, let's rewrite the narrative of South African higher education. Join us on this exciting journey!"

The SAPHE Conference, held on 7 November at the IMM Graduate School in Parktown, Johannesburg, provided a valuable platform for thought leadership, academic dialogue, and the exchange of research initiatives.