(1) The recent reports have highlighted numbers which have not been verified. What has been verified from the data provided by the Department of Basic Education is that 337 158 learners obtained Bachelor passes, and many made multiple applications to different universities.
The Department has been directing students to all institutional types. Public universities are complemented by private universities which are increasingly accepting more students. For instance, in 2022 the intake was 258 215 students, and this grew by 10.94% in 2023, during which 286 454 students were accepted.
Furthermore, the Department intensified its campaign to direct more students to TVET Colleges. The Department is also investing in expanding some universities and is allocating resources accordingly, for example funding was set aside for the establishment of new university campuses at Giyani (by the Tshwane University of Technology) and Ulundi (by the University of Zululand). In addition, the Department has secured international scholarships to support students in critical fields.
(2) (a): The Department continues to invest in the development of infrastructure required for the Sol Plaatje University and the University of Mpumalanga to achieve their planned growth of 7500 students and 18000 students respectively. Furthermore, the Department annually adjusts the enrolment plan to align with infrastructure investments. A private-public model is being explored to establish a University in Hammanskraal on the existing SAPS centre in partnership with the South African Police Service Department .
In addition, the Department is encouraging the use of blended learning as a measure to increase access to learning. Institutions, such as the University of Johannesburg and University of Stellenbosch, have been able to support more students through online learning systems.
(b): In addition to the on-going campaign of making TVET Colleges institutions of choice, the Department is also implementing an articulation pathway between TVET Colleges and universities.
COMPILER DETAILS
NAME AND SURNAME: Mr Noman Mkwana, and Mr Tshiamo Moleme
CONTACT: 012 312 5283
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Minister signs Parliamentary Question 131.
DR NKOSINATHI SISHI
DIRECTOR–GENERAL: HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING
DATE:
PARLIAMENTARY REPLY IS APPROVED / NOT APPROVED / AMENDED.
COMMENT/S
DR NOBUHLE NKABANE, MP
MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING
DATE: 24/02/2025