Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
05 April 2025 | 11:30 CAT

Bridging the gap in access to quality education through public-private collaboration.

Access to quality higher education continues to be a major hurdle for many young South Africans, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. While strides have been made through government-sponsored initiatives like NSFAS, concerns remain about capacity constraints at public universities.

Speaking to Radio Islam International, Taryn Migatchev, Deputy Registrar at the Independent Institute of Education (IIE), highlighted the crucial role of private higher education institutions in improving inclusivity and addressing the country’s growing demand for tertiary education spaces.

“Public universities receive hundreds of thousands of applications every year, but their capacity often falls far short of demand, leaving many qualified students without access to higher learning,” explained Migatchev.

He emphasised that private institutions are well-positioned to complement public efforts by increasing capacity and expanding access to quality education, particularly in high-demand fields. “The contribution of private institutions cannot be underestimated. We offer accredited qualifications, flexibility in programme delivery, and often operate in areas where public universities have limited reach,” he added.

Migatchev stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships between public and private sectors to ensure broader access to education. “Public-private collaboration is key. If we align our efforts, resources and infrastructure, we can better meet the growing educational needs of the country.”

While acknowledging the significant impact of government interventions such as NSFAS, he noted that additional funding models, including bursaries and scholarships from the private sector, could further ease financial barriers for students.

Migatchev called for ongoing dialogue between educational stakeholders to address systemic challenges and create sustainable solutions. “Improving access is not only about financial support but also about ensuring that students have the necessary academic, technological and emotional resources to succeed.”

As South Africa continues to grapple with growing demand for higher education, the role of private institutions, supported by effective public-private partnerships, appears increasingly vital in bridging the accessibility gap.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Taryn Migatchev here.