All Systems Go for USAf Higher Education Conference 2026

Higher education leaders, policymakers, academics, researchers, students and industry partners from across South Africa and beyond will converge at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria from 7 to 9 October 2026 as Universities South Africa (USAf) hosts its 4th Higher Education Conference under the theme, “Co-Creating a Resilient Future.”

The three-day conference comes at a pivotal moment for the higher education sector as universities grapple with rapid technological change, sustainability imperatives, funding pressures, student success challenges, governance demands and evolving societal expectations. The gathering will provide an important platform for reflection, dialogue and action aimed at strengthening the resilience and responsiveness of South Africa’s university system.

Delegates can expect a rich and diverse line-up of distinguished speakers, thought leaders and sector influencers who will share insights on the future of higher education, institutional resilience, digital transformation, internationalisation, governance, innovation and societal impact.

Opening the conference will be Dr Phethiwe Matutu, Chief Executive Officer of Universities South Africa, followed by a keynote address from Honourable Mr Buti Manamela, Minister of Higher Education and Training. The opening day will also feature a keynote presentation by Professor Thandwa Mthembu, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Durban University of Technology, who will explore the foundations of creating a resilient future through a deeper understanding of the present.

A major highlight on the first day will be a high-level panel discussion on reimagining and challenging the idea of the university, featuring Professor Sizwe Mabizela, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Rhodes University; Dr Amani Saidi from the Council on Higher Education; and Professor Linda du Plessis of North-West University. Former SARS Commissioner Mr Edward Kieswetter will further contribute to the dialogue through a presentation on governance, accountability and institutional renewal.

The conference will also bring a strong international flavour, with renowned higher education experts such as Professor Ellen Hazelkorn from Technological University Dublin, Professor Lisa-Dionne Morris from the University of Leeds and Professor Paul Tiyambe Zeleza from Howard University contributing global perspectives on university funding, academic futures, internationalisation, knowledge equity and academic solidarity.

Technology and innovation will feature prominently throughout the programme. Delegates will hear from leading data scientist Professor Vukosi Marivate on data and digital transformation. At the same time, discussions on academic innovation will include contributions from experts such as Professor Joey Chifamba of UCLA, Dr Kim Lamont-Mbawuli of Tshwane University of Technology and award-winning student entrepreneur Mr Zanodumo Godlimpi.

The conference programme also reflects a strong commitment to addressing matters of equity, student success and institutional sustainability. Speakers, including Dr Pedro Mzileni, Professor Edith Dinong Phaswana, Professor Luvuyo Lalendle, Dr Thato Masekoa and Professor Francois Strydom, will lead discussions on the public good, inclusion, student development and the future of higher education institutions.

On the final day, attention will turn towards research excellence, societal impact and collaborative leadership. Distinguished contributors such as Professor Chris Brink, Professor Jean Greyling, Dr Gerrie Booysen and Professor Linda Godfrey will explore how universities can enhance their impact on society through research and innovation.

The conference will culminate in a Vice-Chancellors’ Dialogue featuring sector leaders, including Professor Dini Mawela, Professor Nokuthula Kunene, Dr Jeffrey Mabelebele and Dr Thandi Lewin, who will collectively examine pathways towards co-creating a resilient future for higher education in South Africa.

USAf Board Chairperson and Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria, Professor Francis Petersen, will play a central role throughout the conference, guiding strategic discussions to translate ideas into practical actions for the sector.

The conference is structured around three overarching themes: Understanding the Present, Reimagining Universities, and Co-Creating the Future, ensuring that delegates engage not only in identifying current challenges but also in shaping innovative and collaborative solutions for the years ahead. Expected outcomes include strengthened sector collaboration, enhanced engagement among key stakeholders, and the identification of priority actions to build more resilient universities that can serve South Africa’s developmental aspirations in a rapidly changing world.

As anticipation builds ahead of next week’s gathering, all indications point to a landmark event that will bring together some of the most influential voices in higher education to chart a bold and sustainable future for South African universities.

Writer, Ms Gcina Nhleko (APR): Corporate Communications Manager: Universities South Africa (USAf)