The Future of the University Report 2024

Universities South Africa convened its 3rd Higher Education conference from 9 to 11 October 2024, on the theme: The Future of the University.

The conference built on themes from its two predecessor events, namely Reinventing SA’s Universities for the Future (2019) and The Engaged University (2021), thus continuing the narrative to advance the higher education agenda and set a clear course of action. The conference theme also expressed

USAf’s Three-Year Implementation Plan (2024–2026) strategic objectives, among other matters, to be responsive to national and global contexts; improve the sustainability of the higher education sector; advance transformation; and build a fit-for-purpose USAf.

This report is therefore an account of intellectual engagements with the conference theme within the parameters of priority focus areas of USAf strategy groups. It reflects the solid thought leadership shared and the rich debates that ensued from the engaged conference audience.