March 11, 2026

Learning, Growing, Leading

The year is only two months old, yet many SAPHE colleagues have already dived into learning experiences they describe as exciting, enriching, eye-opening, and career-boosting. A range of EDTP SETA-funded qualifications and programmes launched in February, diverse in nature but with a shared goal: to upskill and build capacity, supporting SAPHE colleagues both personally and professionally.


For those with stamina, formal qualifications such as the Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education and the Occupational Certificate: Training and Development Practitioner got off to a rigorous start. Others opted for bite-sized learning experiences tailored to specific interests—from Research to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Training, and from Power BI to Leadership Development.

A glimpse at some of the early feedback highlights the impact of these programmes:


Research: “We are not just producing dissertations or theses. We are producing knowledge that can move systems.”

Power BI: “The practical, hands-on approach enhanced my understanding of Power BI’s features and enabled me to create more insightful dashboards that I use daily to support reporting and decision-making at my institute.”


Leadership Development: “My colleagues thoroughly enjoyed the experience and returned with valuable insights. They’re feeling rejuvenated and ready to put their takeaways into practice.”


Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging: “It was an incredible programme. I learnt a lot and feel encouraged to incorporate this information into my personal and professional life.”


Other programmes, such as Designing with AI, will be offered later in the year, promising even more opportunities to explore emerging fields and cutting-edge skills.


Reflecting on these initiatives, SAPHE Chair, Dr Carin Stoltz-Urban, says: "What a wonderful opportunity to provide our members with chances to upskill, grow, and develop. We are grateful to the EDTP SETA for the funding that has unlocked this treasure trove of opportunities."



2026 is off to a strong start, and SAPHE colleagues are embracing every opportunity to learn, innovate, and lead in the higher education sector.

SAPHE Conference 2026: Exploring the future of higher education

October 12, 2026
With the SAPHE Conference fast approaching, SAPHE looks forward to welcoming delegates on 11-12 November 2026 at the IMM Graduate School in Parktown, Johannesburg. Held under the theme Private Higher Education: Academic Excellence in an Evolving Society, the Conference will feature engaging, interactive sessions and opportunities for discussion and exchange. Two distinguished keynote speakers, Prof Ahmed Bawa and Prof Stephanie Burton , will share their perspectives on the nature and purpose of higher education and its role in a rapidly changing world. 

SAPHE pays tribute to Mr Sam Isaacs

October 8, 2026
SAPHE extends its sincere condolences on the passing of Mr Samuel Benjamin Arend Isaacs. Mr Isaacs played a significant role in shaping South Africa’s post-1994 education and training landscape. His contribution to the development of the NQF and to the recognition and advancement of learning has had a lasting impact across the education sector.  SAPHE acknowledges his remarkable contribution to South Africa’s education and training community and extends our condolences to his family, friends and colleagues at SAQA.

Quality Assurance: Shared Challenges, Shared Learning

August 18, 2026
SAPHE's latest Quality Assurance Community of Practice (QA CoP)