The Ministry Congratulates the new Universities body, Universities of South Africa.
On the 22nd of July 2015, the leadership of the country’s universities launched a new organization called Universities South Africa. This organization is a successor to the ten-year-old Higher Education South Africa [HESA]. There has been a long standing criticism from some quarters of HESA as an extremely inward looking elitist association of Vice Chancellors filled with academic arrogance. Whilst the criticism was excessive when measured against reality, it is refreshing that Universities South Africa is committed to open itself up to various stakeholders than its predecessor.
Considering its Strategic Framework [2015-2019], we are indeed set to witness an activist and more engaging body of critical thought on issues of social relations. The Framework reflects an organization committed to the Constitution, with a strong lobbying role on matters that advance an inclusive society through a higher education system consistent with the developmental agenda of our society.
Universities South Africa commits to a creation of an environment where universities in SA can thrive and prosper, thus enabling them to contribute to the social, cultural and economic development of our country. They will continue to conduct research on key issues with beneficial implications for universities.
This body will strengthen the creation of a Higher Education Governance System based on the principles of cooperative governance, institutional autonomy, academic freedom, and institutional accountability; and provide university leaders with a variety of forums to discuss and exchange ideas on matters of common interest.
Related to the above is the commitment to facilitate effective dialogue between universities and government, the private sector, Parliament and other stakeholders on issues affecting universities.
Broadening the mandate of universities to include issues such as social justice, inclusive education for inclusive society, and assuming an activist approach that includes lobbying on critical matters of critical national importance, including the Constitution, is an important dimension within which this new organization of Universities Vice Chancellors promises to operate, a development that we welcome.
Of importance though, without venturing into the political ecosystem, is their invitation to various stakeholders and opinion shapers within the space of higher education and training to play a role in interactions with Universities South Africa.
As the Department of Higher Education and Training, we wish Universities South Africa well in fulfilling its mission under the leadership of its founding Chairperson, Professor Adam Habib.
Khaye Nkwanyana is Higher Education and Training Ministry Spokesperson.
