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June 26, 2023

Faranani session ignites robust discussion on RPL

Lively discussion and active engagement marked SAPHE's recent Faranani session, held on 15 June 2023. The topic under scrutiny, recognition of prior learning (RPL), proved to be a pressing matter both for regulatory bodies and higher education institutions.

The session was chaired by Dr Carin Stoltz-Urban, SAPHE Board member for Capacity Building, with special guest speaker  Dr Makhapa Makhafola, Director at the Council on Higher Education (CHE). Dr Makhafola shared the CHE's latest insights on RPL, drawing from recent discussions with higher education institutions. While there was consensus on the importance and purpose of RPL as a means to promote access to higher education, particularly for previously disadvantaged individuals, the lack of progress since 1994 was disheartening. "We are not getting it right as a sector," remarked Dr. Makhafola. "We must ask ourselves, what are we doing as a country to promote access with success?"


The Faranani session served as an ideal platform for a productive conversation on RPL, focusing particularly on aspects that should be revisited during the revision of the current RPL policy. One key issue with the existing policy was the rule limiting RPL admissions to no more than 10% of a programme's student cohort.  This aspect of the policy is likely to change to achieve the intended purpose of RPL, which is to broaden access.


Clarity on assessment requirements for prior learning and clear guidelines for RPL policy implementation were among the areas calling for greater attention. Dr Makhafola said the CHE's would like to invite guidance from higher education institutions on RPL, as well as on related matters such as credit transfers and articulation. He also emphasised the need for better alignment between CHE and SAQA policies, acknowledging that current alignment was lacking.


From the discussions, it became evident that agility and flexibility, both in assessment practices and curriculum design, are essential prerequisites for RPL to effectively support transformation and fulfil its intended purpose of expanding access with success.

Despite the challenges faced in RPL implementation, success stories emerged during the session as attendees shared the educational journeys of RPL students. Dr. Stoltz-Urban invited SAPHE members to collaborate on a paper highlighting RPL success stories for the upcoming SAPHE conference in November of this year.



The RPL Faranani session truly embodied its namesake, "working together," as Dr Makhafola and the attendees exchanged ideas and thoughts on how to reinvigorate RPL and unlock its potential to transform lives.

Dr Carin Stoltz-Urban and Dr Makhapa Makhafola

Excellence in action: SAPHE Faranani session inspires!

March 25, 2025
Faranani means "working together," and that’s exactly what SAPHE’s Faranani session on 20 March was all about! The session started with a brief discussion on the 2025 SAPHE Excellence Awards categories and evaluation criteria. This was followed by an inspiring presentation from TSIBA, the 2024 winner of the Excellence Award for Community Engagement. TSIBA didn’t just showcase what a winning entry looks like—they demonstrated what education with real social impact truly means.  TSIBA’s John Durr and Earl-Djehuti Erasmus took attendees through their Social Entrepreneurship and Leadership Development experiential learning programmes. Designed to drive social, economic, and educational impact, these programmes highlight the transformative power of education. By providing meaningful, applied learning experiences, these programmes empower students while making a tangible difference in the communities they come from or will serve in the future. The results? Well-rounded graduates, thriving start-ups, and a ripple effect of positive change. Kudos to TSIBA! The Faranani session illustrated the power of collaboration, offering SAPHE members valuable insights from TSIBA’s award-winning approach. Together, we continue to shape a sector that makes a real difference through education!

First SAPHE Community of Practice Launched!

February 21, 2025
“Let’s work together, share, and learn from one another!”—This spirit of collaboration set the tone for the launch of SAPHE’s first Community of Practice (CoP) on 12 February. Dedicated to professionals in Library and Information Services (LIS) at SAPHE member institutions, the CoP kicked off with an engaging event attended by around 60 participants. When the idea of establishing CoPs was discussed at the SAPHE member meeting, it was no surprise that LIS staff led the way. Their dynamic and interactive workshop in 2024 laid the groundwork for what is now a formal platform for discussions, knowledge-sharing, workshops, and collective problem-solving. The LIS CoP will be led by Lianda Coetzer (Akademia), supported by team members Irvine Kadzenga (The IIE), Michelle Coates (IMM Graduate School), Unathi Solora (The IIE), and Nqobile Ndlovu (Cornerstone).  We look forward to the impact this CoP will have in fostering collaboration and innovation in LIS!

Celebrating the success of the matric class of 2024

January 22, 2025
The Association for South African Private Higher Education (SAPHE) proudly congratulates the matric class of 2024 on achieving a remarkable 87.3% pass rate, the highest ever recorded. This accomplishment includes an impressive 47.8% Bachelor’s pass rate, opening pathways for 337 158 matriculants to pursue Bachelor studies. As they begin an exciting new chapter, SAPHE invites them to consider the diverse opportunities within South Africa’s private higher education sector. Exploring private higher education Why choose private higher education? Private higher education institutions (PHEIs) offer a range of compelling advantages: Responsive and relevant: PHEIs are renowned for their responsiveness to market demands, ensuring that graduates possess the skills and knowledge most employers seek. Flexible learning options: Whether students prefer part-time, full-time, contact, online, or blended learning formats, PHEIs provide flexible options to accommodate individual circumstances. Tailored education: From large multidisciplinary institutions to niche providers specialising in fields like business, IT, creative design, and more, PHEIs cater to a wide range of interests and career goals. Affordability: Contrary to popular belief, PHEIs offer many cost-sensitive programme options, making quality education accessible to a broader student base. Personalised learning: Smaller class sizes at many PHEIs foster a more personal and engaged learning environment, facilitating a smoother transition from school to tertiary education.  Quality Assurance and Accreditation All PHEIs registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and offering programmes accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) adhere to rigorous quality standards comparable to those of public universities. These qualifications are nationally recognised and valued. Nancy-Anne Anderson, CEO of SAPHE, emphasises that SAPHE members are all registered with the DHET and deliver education that meets national standards. Students and parents can find a list of SAPHE member institutions on the SAPHE website, while a comprehensive directory of registered PHEIs is available on the DHET website. Strengthening South Africa’s Higher Education Sector Dr Carin Stoltz-Urban, Chairperson of the SAPHE Board, highlights the vital role PHEIs play in bolstering South Africa’s higher education landscape. “Together with public universities, PHEIs contribute to the development of a skilled workforce that drives the country’s socio-economic progress,” she explains. Apply now for 2025 The private higher education sector continues to welcome applications for the 2025 academic year. Many PHEIs still have spaces available across various disciplines, providing an excellent opportunity for students eager to begin their studies without delay.
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