JOHANNESBURG – Students who have applied and are registered at City Varsity, Damelin and Icesa need not panic.
Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela says the integrity of qualifications obtained at the institutions are still valid.
The department announced over the weekend that they will be deregistering the institutions.
They cite non-compliance, including the failure to submit annual reports and prove financial sustainability.
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According to the department, affected students will be provided with support.
Those already enrolled will be protected through a teach-out process once the legal process is finalised.
This process ensures a plan is in place for existing students to be able to complete their studies even after the institution has been shut down.
Manamela warns prospective students not to pay any fees until the matter is resolved. Those , and for those who have already paid the institution is liable for paying them back.
The institutions now have 10 days to respond if they wish to contest the decision.
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The Minister has acknowledged concerns about the timing of the announcement.
It comes weeks before the start of the 2026 academic year. He says the department is following the process under the Higher Education Act.
Manamela says there is sufficient capacity within public universities, private institutions, TVET colleges and community colleges to absorb students