Increasing access to quality higher education in SA: 5 paths to success

Access to higher education remains one of South Africa’s most powerful tools for social mobility, economic growth and national development. For many young people – especially first-generation students – it represents the chance to break cycles of poverty and build better futures for themselves and their families.

While it is estimated that between 30% and 40% of qualifying students can’t access higher education for various reasons annually, simply opening the doors of higher learning to more young people is not enough, an education expert says.

Peter Kriel, executive: Operations at Advtech and The IIE’s Academic Centre of Excellence, says access and quality must go hand in hand: “True access means creating opportunities for students to enter higher education, thrive within it and graduate with the skills and confidence needed to build meaningful careers.”

He says there are five practical ways for South African higher education institutions to expand access while supporting student success:

1. Develop multiple entry pathways

Traditional admission routes exclude many talented students whose school backgrounds may not fully reflect their potential. Institutions can widen participation by offering foundation programmes including higher certificates, extended curriculum streams, bridging courses and alternative admission pathways.

These flexible entry points acknowledge that academic readiness is not equally available across all communities. By providing targeted academic preparation, institutions can identify and nurture talent that may otherwise be left behind, without lowering standards.

“Widening participation is not about lowering academic standards, but rather about creating appropriate pathways that enable students to reach those standards,” says Kriel.

2. Strengthen transition support programmes

The jump from school to higher education is often daunting. Students face new academic demands, greater independence and the need for advanced analytical skills. Strong orientation programmes, first-year experience initiatives and structured academic skills workshops help ease this transition.

Proactive support in the critical first year significantly improves retention and builds the foundation for long-term success, notes Kriel.

3. Invest in academic development initiatives

Ongoing support is essential. Tutoring services, writing centres, peer-assisted learning programmes and dedicated academic development resources help students bridge knowledge gaps and build confidence. These initiatives are particularly valuable for students navigating higher education for the first time in their families, turning potential struggles into opportunities for growth.

4. Use data to identify at-risk students early

Institutions should harness student success analytics to spot challenges before they become crises. Early warning systems allow for timely interventions: whether through additional tutoring, counselling or personalised support.

“Proactive, data-driven approaches dramatically improve completion rates and ensure expanded access translates into actual graduate outcomes,” says Kriel.

5. Create inclusive and adaptive learning environments

Students succeed best when they feel they belong. Inclusive campuses that respect diversity, foster connection and value different backgrounds help students engage fully with their studies.

Artificial intelligence and adaptive technologies further enhance this by enabling personalised learning pathways: adjusting content, pace and support in real time to match each student’s unique needs, learning style and progress.

Feeling respected and supported by lecturers and peers ensures increased persistence and chances for success.

Broader impact and shared responsibility

When students complete their qualifications, the benefits multiply, says Kriel. “Graduates access better employment, develop critical thinking and professional skills, and often become role models who inspire the next generation. This creates a powerful ripple effect: stronger families, more skilled communities and broader economic growth.”

Students also have a key role to play. Actively using available support services, building good study habits, managing time effectively, engaging with lecturers and staying curious can make a significant difference, he advises.

At the same time, institutions must recognise that many students enter higher education while dealing with financial pressure, family responsibilities or personal challenges. Support systems therefore need to be visible, accessible and proactive – reaching students before they have to ask for help.

“Expanding access to quality higher education is one of South Africa’s greatest opportunities for meaningful change. This means not simply increasing enrolment numbers, but an active strategy to unlock human potential, enabling individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader economy.”

Image credit: Magnific/ArtPhoto_studio