Emeris launches as a new force in South African higher education

Emeris was officially launched on September 18. Dr. Andre Abrahams, Executive Dean of Emeris joins Relebogile Mabotja in 702 Afternoon's Masterclass to discuss the move.

Listen below...

Emeris brings together The IIE's Varsity College, IIE MSA, IIE Vega School, and IIE School of Hospitality and Service Management under a single banner. This strategic unification seeks to consolidate their resources and expertise to improve the provision of educational services across a network of enhanced campuses.

"It's a fresh start - but also some of the strong traditions that have held it in good stead, those things will remain," 

- Dr. Andre Abrahams, Executive Dean: Academics

He recognises the challenge, stating that trust remains one of their biggest hurdles as they lack the long-standing legacy of public universities. However, he pointed to steady growth in the sector, driven by students seeking alternatives not just because of limited space in public institutions, but also due to a growing recognition of the quality emerging from the private sector.

Dr Abrahams presents Emeris as an institution that does things differently, providing unique benefits for its students.

A key point of discussion was the future of the highly specialised and respected brands now part of the Emeris umbrella, particularly Vega and the School of Hospitality. Mabotja questioned whether their unique strengths might be at risk of being diluted within the larger, consolidated structure.

Abrahams was quick to reassure, explaining that this was a primary concern. He emphasised a deliberate and cautious approach to the unification.

While housed under one umbrella, powerhouse brands like Vega will retain their true identity, operating in their own buildings on ampus and maintaining their unique approach to curriculum and class design.

He described it as a “fresh start” for these schools, but one where the strong traditions that made them successful will remain firmly in place.

With its launch, Emeris emerges as a strong new entity, aiming to combine the collective strength of its legacy brands with a refreshed, student-focused approach to learning.

About Emeris | 34 Years of Legacy Continues