Govt launches policy to recognise private universities: ‘It’s an exciting time to be in higher education’

Under a new DHET policy, private higher education institutions are officially allowed to use the title 'university'.

The department has officially gazetted the Policy for the Recognition of South African Higher Education Institutional Types, which will align South Africa with global education standards.

The new policy introduces three institutional categories, Higher Education Colleges, University Colleges, and Universities, which apply to both public and private institutions. 

Dr Rob Stegmann, academic head at Boston City Campus, said this new policy closed the gap between public universities and private institutions.

"It is a really exciting time to be in higher education," he added.

Private universities will have to adhere to rigorous standards to be afforded university status, to ensure they are in line with public universities.

To listen to Stegmann in conversation with Clarence Ford on CapeTalk’s Views and News, use the audio player below: