Category: South Africa Government

By William Baloyi
South Africa has built a world-class higher education system that has become a strategic national asset. Our universities are not only recognised among the best globally; they are centres of excellence that drive innovation, strengthen the economy, develop highly skilled graduates and contribute to global knowledge creation.

The growing international recognition of South Africa’s universities is a story worth celebrating. It reflects the enduring vision of a society where education, knowledge and opportunity are powerful drivers of transformation and progress. This vision was central to the legacy of Nelson Mandela, who recognised education as one of the most important tools for empowering people and building a more equal society. Today, the strong performance of South African universities in respected global rankings is more than a source of national pride; it reflects the country’s intellectual capital, capacity for innovation and ability to compete on the global stage.

As South Africa works to accelerate inclusive economic growth and create sustainable opportunities, the achievements of its universities serve as a powerful reminder that investing in knowledge is ultimately an investment in the nation’s future. This is a story of excellence, innovation and national capability. It reflects the quality of scholarship, research and graduates that South Africa continues to produce, while demonstrating how universities are advancing practical solutions to some of the country’s most pressing development priorities, from energy security and public health to food security, climate resilience and the future of work.

International rankings consistently place South African universities among the world’s leading institutions. The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) has emerged as Africa’s leading university in the 2026 Centre for World University Rankings (CWUR). This recognition reflects the university’s excellence in research, educational quality, faculty performance, and graduate employability, reinforcing the important role that South African universities play in advancing knowledge, innovation, and development across the continent and beyond.

The University of Cape Town (UCT) continues to receive global recognition for its academic excellence and research impact. In major international rankings, including the 2026/27 US News & World Report Best Global Universities rankings and the QS World University Rankings 2027, UCT is recognised as one of Africa’s highest-performing universities, reflecting its strength in research reputation, academic excellence, international collaboration and graduate outcomes. Together, these achievements demonstrate the depth of excellence within South Africa’s higher education sector and the ability of multiple institutions to compete among the world’s best.

The impact of South Africa’s universities is perhaps best demonstrated through the groundbreaking research they produce, including the work of Wits University public health leader and vaccinologist, Professor Shabir A. Madhi, who has been recognised with one of the world’s leading infectious disease honours. Professor Madhi will be receiving the 2026 Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement, a recognition that not only reflects hard work and dedication but also affirms the global significance of South African research in combatting some of the world’s deadliest childhood diseases and pandemic threats.

Across the country, revolutionary breakthroughs are emerging through South African research as scholars develop practical solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. At the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), researchers are leading Africa’s first HIV cure trial, which has shown promising results in enabling some participants to remain virally suppressed without lifelong antiretroviral therapy, a significant milestone in the global fight against HIV. UKZN researchers are also advancing innovative solutions to improve water quality through cutting-edge chemistry research aimed at removing harmful pollutants from wastewater.

Similar contributions are being made at Stellenbosch University, where researchers are advancing work in areas such as renewable energy, agriculture, biotechnology and health sciences. The university’s efforts in developing innovative agricultural technologies, improving food security and advancing sustainable energy solutions demonstrate how research can respond to national priorities while addressing global challenges. Through collaboration with industry, government and international partners, Stellenbosch University continues to translate scientific knowledge into solutions that support economic development and improve livelihoods.

South Africa’s commitment to impactful research is equally evident at the University of Pretoria (UP), where researchers are making significant contributions in fields including veterinary science, agriculture, engineering and artificial intelligence. Through the development of solutions that strengthen food security, improve animal health, support disease prevention and advance technological innovation, UP demonstrates how higher education institutions can play a vital role in strengthening communities and building a more resilient economy.

The University of Cape Town is also contributing to solutions for one of South Africa’s most pressing challenges: energy security. Through its Energy Systems Research Group, UCT is conducting groundbreaking research that combines modelling, policy analysis and field-based studies to support evidence-based decision-making on energy transitions in South Africa and the broader region. This work assists policymakers, industry and communities in identifying pathways towards a more sustainable and reliable energy system.

UCT-led researchers have also made important advances in cancer research by studying how cancer cells change in ways that allow them to avoid detection by the immune system. This research could contribute to the development of new cancer treatments, early detection methods and vaccines, while demonstrating how South African scientists are contributing to global efforts to better understand and fight complex diseases.

The University of South Africa (UNISA) adds another important dimension to this story by demonstrating how open and distance learning can expand South Africa’s research capacity. In 2025, UNISA produced more than 550 doctoral graduates, highlighting the important role of accessible higher education in developing advanced skills, strengthening research capacity and producing the next generation of scholars and innovators. Each doctoral graduate represents new knowledge, innovation and future leadership that can contribute to South Africa, the continent and the world.

The global recognition of South Africa’s higher education excellence will reach another milestone when the University of Cape Town (UCT) hosts the Times Higher Education World Academic Summit from 29 September to 1 October 2026, marking the first time this prestigious gathering will be held on African soil.

Co-hosted with the University of Bristol, the summit will bring global leaders in higher education, research, policy, business and civil society to South Africa. It is a historic platform to showcase Africa’s contribution to global knowledge and to place South African scholarship at the centre of debates about inclusive, sustainable and future-ready societies.

As South Africa reflects on the remarkable achievements of its universities, we are reminded that education has always been at the heart of building a better society. Nelson Mandela understood that education is a powerful tool for transformation, one that unlocks human potential, expands opportunities and empowers generations to shape their own futures.

Today, South Africa’s universities are carrying this legacy forward. They are not only producing graduates and advancing knowledge; they are solving complex challenges, driving innovation and contributing to the development of a more inclusive and competitive nation. Their achievements demonstrate that South Africa has the talent, creativity and intellectual capacity to make meaningful contributions to the world.
The success of these institutions is the success of South Africa itself.

*Baloyi is the Deputy Spokesperson of the South African Government

 

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The eThekwini Municipality has moved to clarify its position regarding 13 former flood-displaced families currently occupying the area outside the Temporary Emergency Accommodation (TEA) facility on Mahatma Gandhi Road.

The families were initially accommodated through government emergency relief measures following the devastating April 2022 floods.

The municipality said that, as part of its ongoing flood recovery programme, a comprehensive occupancy review and beneficiary verification process was undertaken to determine eligibility for permanent housing assistance and continued occupation of TEA facilities.

According to the municipality, the review was conducted in accordance with the National Housing Code, applicable housing legislation and approved government housing programmes.

The assessment considered several criteria, including registration on the Housing Subsidy System (HSS), ownership of residential property by beneficiaries or their spouses, previous receipt of government housing assistance, household income in relation to subsidised housing thresholds, and compliance with registration and verification requirements.

“The outcome of the assessment confirmed that the affected households do not meet the eligibility requirements for the available government housing intervention programmes.

“As a result, they do not qualify for continued accommodation under the TEA programme or for permanent subsidised housing assistance within the current policy framework,” the municipality said in a statement.

“The municipality added that the assessment outcomes were formally communicated to the affected households, and the required notices were issued. While opportunities were provided to engage on available options, the municipality said these processes were not concluded.

According to the municipality, the verification process identified several factors affecting eligibility, including existing property ownership, previous housing subsidy benefits, housing allocations already in progress and household income levels that exceed the qualifying threshold for subsidised housing programmes.

Despite the outcome, the municipality said it remains committed to engaging the affected households in a lawful, humane and constructive manner.

“Municipal officials continue to assess individual circumstances to determine whether any alternative interventions may be appropriate and available.”

Although some households do not qualify for a Breaking New Ground (BNG) housing subsidy, the municipality said other forms of housing support may be considered, subject to eligibility and availability.

These include rental housing opportunities, alternative accommodation arrangements, relocation options where appropriate, and access to social support services through relevant government departments and agencies.

The municipality noted that each case is assessed individually, taking into account the verification outcome, household income category, ownership status, subsidy eligibility, and the availability of suitable accommodation interventions.

“The municipality has a responsibility to ensure that limited public housing resources are allocated fairly, transparently and in accordance with legislative and policy requirements. This is necessary to ensure that qualifying beneficiaries receive assistance through approved government housing programmes.

“The municipality, together with the relevant Human Settlements authorities, will continue engaging affected households and reviewing individual circumstances where appropriate to ensure that all reasonable and available housing options are explored,” the municipality explained.

It reiterated its commitment to supporting flood-affected residents within the framework of applicable legislation and approved housing programmes while advancing sustainable and equitable housing solutions for qualifying beneficiaries. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) is urging parents, caregivers and legal guardians to return consent forms to schools to ensure eligible learners receive the life-saving Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination.

The department is rolling out the HPV vaccination campaign until 9 October 2026, at both independent and public schools.

The vaccine will be offered to all eligible Grade 5 girls aged nine years and older.

“A single dose of the vaccine provides effective protection against HPV infection and significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer later in life.

“Cervical cancer, also known as cancer of the cervix, remains one of the most common cancers affecting women in South Africa. However, it is largely preventable through HPV vaccination and regular cervical cancer screening,” the department said in a statement.

HPV affects both men and women with types 16 and 18 of the virus responsible for over 70% of cervical cancer cases.

“The HPV vaccine, used in the public health programme, Cervarix, is safe and highly effective in protecting against these high-risk strains.

“A recent study published in The Lancet Global Health found that South Africa’s school-based HPV vaccination programme reduced infections caused by HPV types 16 and 18 by 83% among young women, including those living with HIV.

“The findings demonstrate the substantial public health benefits of achieving high HPV vaccination coverage,” the statement explained.

More than 80 000 girls were vaccinated during the 2025/26 rollout campaign however, the department faced challenges including:

• Declining access to vaccination teams
• Learner absenteeism on vaccination days which affected 1 830 learners
• Non-return of 24 327 parental consent forms.
• Misinformation and vaccine hesitancy also contributed to lower vaccination rates in some schools.

“The success of this campaign depends on parental and community support. No learner will be vaccinated without a signed consent form.

“However, learners aged 12 years and older may provide their own consent in accordance with national health guidelines. The department nevertheless encourages parents and caregivers to remain actively involved in this important health intervention.

“Parents and guardians are urged to read the information provided by schools, complete the consent forms and return them promptly to ensure eligible learners do not miss the opportunity to receive protection against cervical cancer,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

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The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) recently appointed Administrator, Professor Hlengani Mathebula, will lead the presentation of the NSFAS Stabilisation Report to the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Kgwaridi Manamela.

Mathebula was appointed as the Administrator in May 2026, a pivotal moment for NSFAS and the broader higher education and training sector.

As Administrator, Mathebula’s mandate encompasses stabilisation, operational continuity and institutional renewal.

According to the Government Gazette, the Administrator is mandated to submit to the Minister, within three months of appointment, an initial stabilisation plan addressing matters including, but not limited to:

• Audit remedial priorities;

• Consequence management priorities;

• ICT and data-integration priorities;

• Immediate operational continuity; and

• Student accommodation compliance.

Mathebula will therefore present the stabilisation plan on Tuesday, 4 August 2026.

The plan constitutes a catalogue of interventions to be undertaken in the ensuing period, carefully identified priorities, and his leadership approach to maximising execution.

The Administrator will also provide an update on NSFAS’s performance during the 90 days, including progress made in the administration of student funding, governance, financial management, operational improvements and key interventions aimed at strengthening service delivery for students and higher education institutions. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The 9th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Industrialisation Week has been a demonstration of the power of regional cooperation through robust discussions, practical exchanges and new partnerships.

This is according to the Deputy Director General (DDG) of Trade at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Xolelwa Mlumbi-Peter, who made these remarks at the closing ceremony of the week-long SADC Industrialisation Week held at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC). 

Mlumbi-Peter said the conference renewed collective commitment to advance the SADC Industrialisation Strategy and to build a region that is resilient, sustainable and inclusive.

The South African government hosted the event in partnership with the SADC Business Council and the SADC Secretariat from 27 July –31 July 2026. 

It supports the implementation of the SADC Industrialisation Strategy and Roadmap (2015 – 2063), which is anchored on three pillars: industrialisation, competitiveness and regional integration.

Hosted under the theme: “Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World”, it is a high-level precursor to the 46th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government.   

Among the key declarations made at the conclusion are a commitment to promote beneficiation and local processing of critical minerals and agricultural products to maximise regional economic value, mobilise greater public and private investment in industrial infrastructure, including energy, transport, logistics, digital connectivity and industrial parks. 

In addition, the meeting pledged to strengthen regional industrial value chains to increase production, value addition, intra – SADC trade and industrial competitiveness.

Mlumbi Peter emphasised that the success of the meeting will be measured by how effectively the declarations and recommendations emanating from discussions are implemented. 

“We will work closely with the SADC secretariat to develop a roadmap that will help translate the outcomes into concrete actions that create jobs, expand regional value chains and improve the lives of our people. 

“We must consistently be mindful of the fact that sustainable industrial development cannot be achieved by governments alone; strong partnerships between governments, the private sector, development finance institutions, academia, research institutions and development partners remain essential for mobilising investment, supporting innovation and accelerating implementation of regional industrial priorities,” she said.

The SADC Deputy Executive Secretary Angele Makombo N’tumba concurred that the ideas shared at the meeting must now be translated into practical programmes, bankable projects and measurable results. 

“Our citizens will judge our success not by the quality of our discussions, but by the industries we establish, the jobs we create, the technologies we develop and the opportunities we provide for future generations.

“Industrialisation is not a competition among Member States. It is a shared regional journey where each country contributes its comparative advantage while benefiting from a larger, integrated regional market,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za 

 

 

 

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President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver a keynote address at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban as part of South Africa’s programme of hosting the 46th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

“The Public Lecture is an opportunity for people from different sectors of society to participate in discussions about the regional integration agenda and strengthen public ownership of SADC’s Vision 2050,” the Presidency said in a statement.

SADC will convene its 46th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government on 16 and 17 August 2026 in Durban under the theme: “Translating SADC Vision 2050 into Action: Pathways Towards Solidarity, Equality and Shared Prosperity.”

The Summit will be preceded by the meetings of the Council of Ministers (starting 12 August 2026) and the Committee of Senior Officials (starting 6 August 2026).

The Public Lecture on Friday, 14 August 2026, will provide a platform for high-level reflection and public dialogue on practical pathways for advancing regional integration, industrialisation, infrastructure development, peace, security and inclusive development in Southern Africa.

“The theme emphasises the need to translate SADC Vision 2050 from a long-term aspiration into concrete programmes, investments and measurable outcomes that deliver visible benefits to citizens and communities across Member States.

“It also highlights the importance of industrialisation, market integration, human capital development, good governance, institutional effectiveness, and active participation by governments, academia, business, civil society, traditional leaders, women, youth and citizens,” the Presidency said.

The Presidency explained that the Public Lecture seeks to deepen public and stakeholder understanding of SADC Vision 2050 and its practical relevance to regional integration, economic transformation, peace, security and inclusive development.

It will also reflect on progress made towards the attainment of the Vision, including achievements, persistent constraints, emerging risks and opportunities requiring accelerated regional action.

Against the backdrop of global uncertainty, climate-related shocks, economic pressures and the need to strengthen regional resilience, the Public Lecture will provide an important opportunity for policymakers, academics, business leaders, regional experts, diplomats, students and members of the public to engage on how SADC can move from aspiration to implementation and deliver tangible improvements in the lives and livelihoods of the people of Southern Africa.

President Ramaphosa’s keynote address will reaffirm South Africa’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and advancing the implementation of SADC Vision 2050 in pursuit of solidarity, equality and shared prosperity. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Presidency and Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute (CMMI) and participating diplomatic missions will on Tuesday host the inaugural International Portraits of Power at the Amphitheatre, Union Buildings, Pretoria.  

“The International Portraits of Power is a Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute initiative that celebrates extraordinary women whose courage, leadership and contributions have shaped nations and inspired generations through a carefully curated exhibition,” the Presidency said in a statement.

The exhibition will feature portraits of iconic women whose legacies reflect the history, values and aspirations of their nations, as nominated by their respective countries. The portraits were created by South African artists in collaboration with participating diplomatic missions.

“The exhibition forms part of the South African government’s Women’s Month programme, which seeks to honour women’s activism towards equality, preserve women’s liberation history and strengthen cultural diplomacy as part of the recently launched Milestones of Freedom campaign,” the Presidency said.

The exhibition brings together government representatives, cultural practitioners, academics and diplomatic missions from across Africa, Europe, Asia and Oceania, with each nominated woman’s legacy interpreted through a specially commissioned portrait. – SAnews.gov.za

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The South African Police Service (SAPS), working together with key law enforcement partners, has intercepted a consignment of cocaine worth an estimated R28 million at OR Tambo International Airport.

According to the police, an intelligence-driven operation was successfully executed on Friday following information received from SAPS Crime Intelligence’s Border Integrity Unit regarding a suspected drug consignment.

“The information was operationalised by members of the SAPS Visible Policing Unit at OR Tambo International Airport, in collaboration with Customs officials and Menzies Aviation operational members.

“The cargo, which had arrived on a flight from São Paulo, Brazil, was intercepted immediately upon arrival at approximately 1pm. The 95 kilograms of cocaine were seized at the cargo section of OR Tambo International Airport,” the police said.

No arrests have been made at this stage. Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those involved in the attempted smuggling operation.

“The SAPS remains committed to disrupting organised criminal networks involved in the illicit drug trade and will continue working with its law enforcement partners to ensure that South Africa’s borders and ports of entry are protected from criminal exploitation,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Electoral Commission (IEC) has welcomed the positive response from South Africans who used the final voter registration weekend to register to vote or update their details ahead of the Local Government Elections.

With only a few hours remaining until 5pm, IEC Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo urged those who have not yet visited voting stations to do so urgently, as all 23 699 voting stations across the country remain open.

“We are delighted that South Africans have responded positively to this final voter registration weekend, but there is still a crucial window of opportunity for those who have not yet registered or who need to update their registration details. We urge every eligible citizen to ensure that they are correctly registered and assigned to the right voting district,” Mamabolo said on Sunday.

The Electoral Commission said it had identified some challenges with its online data-free voter registration service.

The Commission’s technical team is working together with its partners to urgently resolve the matter.

The Electoral Commission will announce the outcome of the voter registration drive at a media briefing on Monday at 1pm at the Election House in Centurion.

The Department of Home Affairs has also extended operating hours at all offices for the final Voter Registration Weekend on 1 and 2 August 2026.

Mamabolo said the final voter registration weekend commenced on a strong footing, with more than 99% of the 23 699 voting stations across the country opening promptly at 8am.

The Commission reported that it had interacted with more than 238 000 citizens at voting stations and on the online portal on Saturday by 12pm.

Mamabolo said the majority of transactions (198 232) were recorded at voting stations across the country, while the Commission’s online data-free voter registration portal recorded 20 078 transactions, providing eligible voters with an additional convenient channel to register or update their details.

“Preliminary figures indicate that the highest volumes of voter transactions are currently being recorded in KwaZulu-Natal (55 759), Eastern Cape (46 889) and Gauteng (41 774); this is consistent with historical patterns and reflects the population densities of the provinces.

“Other provinces, including Limpopo (29 680), Western Cape (19 693), Mpumalanga (17 218), North West (15 610), Free State (13 110), and Northern Cape (6 213), are also recording voter activity as citizens respond positively to the Commission’s call to register and update their details before the conclusion of the voting station-based registration,” he said. –SAnews.gov.za

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The Department of Health has welcomed progress towards a new tuberculosis (TB) vaccine, while confirming preparatory work to ensure timely access for South Africans as part of ongoing efforts to eliminate the epidemic as a public health threat by 2030.

This comes after the ongoing trials of the M72/AS01E vaccine showed promise in Phase 1 and Phase 2. The vaccine is now in Phase 3 trials in South Africa, Kenya, Zambia, Malawi and Indonesia.

According to the department, a vaccine that prevents TB disease in adolescents and adults will be a game-changer for TB control and elimination, both globally and in South Africa.

“Once approved, it will be the first TB vaccine introduced in over a century, because currently we have only the Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, which is given to newborn infants and children under 5 years old and offers limited protection later in life.

“Therefore, to ensure we can offer protection to South Africans at the earliest opportunity if the trial is successful, the Department of Health is proactively preparing for registration and introduction of the new vaccine.”

The department said it had been informed by officials from the Gates Medical Research Institute and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation that an agreement had been reached with the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer, the Serum Institute of India, on the number of doses of the TB vaccine to be produced and sold globally.

The agreement also provides for progressive production by pharmaceutical partners in South Africa and Indonesia over time, which the department said would consequently boost the economic growth of the country.

“This is arguably a major step toward a new TB vaccine — the first significant advance since BCG more than 100 years ago.

“The department welcomes this important agreement and stands ready to support the production and introduction of the M72/ASO1E vaccine in South Africa once the trial results are known, and the vaccine has been registered by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).” –SAnews.gov.za

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