By Thapelo Molefe
Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has issued a notice of intent to cancel the registration of three private higher education institutions, Damelin, City Varsity and ICESA City Campus, citing persistent non-compliance with the Higher Education Act and its regulations.
The department said the decision follows a “prolonged pattern of non-compliance” and was taken to protect students and safeguard the integrity of South Africa’s higher education sector.
According to the ministry, the institutions failed to meet basic statutory and regulatory requirements, including the submission of mandatory annual reports and proof of financial and operational sustainability.
“All three institutions failed to submit their 2024 Annual Reports, despite an extension granted until 30 June 2024 and a final remedial deadline set for 6 June 2025,” the department said in a statement on Saturday.
The minister also cited the institutions’ failure to provide audited annual financial statements, proof of financial surety or guarantees, SARS tax compliance certificates and occupational health and safety compliance documentation.
In addition, the department said it had received “reliable confirmation” that City Varsity and ICESA City Campus have ceased operating and are therefore no longer providing higher education as contemplated in the Act.
The notice of intent to cancel the registrations will be published in the Government Gazette in line with Section 63(a) of the Higher Education Act. The affected institutions will be afforded an opportunity to make representations before a final decision is taken.
The department said it would put measures in place to support affected students through appropriate academic and administrative arrangements.
“The department remains unequivocally committed to protecting students from being enrolled in institutions that cannot demonstrate financial and operational sustainability,” the ministry said, adding that providers must operate within the law and quality assurance framework.
“Institutions that fail to meet their legal and educational obligations cannot be allowed to compromise the futures of the people they serve.”
The ministry encouraged students and the public to engage the department for further guidance as the process unfolds.
INSIDE EDUCATION
