As preparations begin for the 2026 academic year, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, is ramping up efforts to combat the rise of bogus colleges in South Africa.
During a two-day awareness campaign in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, East London, an area home to a large student population including Walter Sisulu University and several TVET colleges, Dr Gondwe pledged to intensify the crackdown on illegal institutions of higher learning.
Joined by Buffalo City Metro MMC for Human Settlements, Cllr Malibongwe Mfazwe, the Deputy Minister led a delegation that included the South African Police Service (SAPS), National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Department of Home Affairs, Department of Employment and Labour, South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), and Umalusi.
The team conducted site visits to four private institutions in the area. Alarming findings emerged, with three institutions displaying serious challenges regarding infrastructure and accreditation of programmes. Immediate steps were taken to ensure these institutions are scrutinised for compliance.
“The problem with bogus or illegal colleges is that they not only rob students and their parents of their hard-earned money but also deprive them of the chance to obtain a legitimate qualification,” said Dr Gondwe. “This issue is close to my heart, and that is why I have worked to strengthen this campaign and give it real impact by partnering with law enforcement agencies.”
Looking ahead, the Deputy Minister revealed that her department is finalising a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with SAPS to regulate the private education sector more effectively and promote safety on campuses.
“We are working on finalising a MOA with SAPS regarding our collaboration in regulating the space because we need assistance; we cannot work alone as a department,” she said. “I believe that the MOA will also address issues of Gender-Based Violence in higher education institutions.”
Dr Gondwe stressed that while private institutions have a vital role to play in alleviating pressure on public universities, they must operate within legal frameworks.
“Private colleges are permitted to operate, but they must do so legally… they must be registered and offer programmes that are accredited by our quality assurance bodies, Umalusi, QCTO, and the Council on Higher Education,” she added.
The campaign continued on Tuesday, 15 July 2025, with a visit to Ebenezer Majombozi High School to raise further awareness ahead of the 2026 application season.
