For many young South Africans, a university degree is the ultimate means of escaping poverty, but 30–40% of eligible students are unable to access higher education each year. Expanding the entry is only part of the solution.
Peter Kriel, operations executive of AdvTech and IIE's Academic Center of Excellence, emphasizes that access and quality must go hand in hand: “True access means creating opportunities for students to enter, pursue, and graduate with the skills and confidence they need to pursue higher education and pursue meaningful careers.”
He says there are five practical ways for South African higher education institutions to increase access while supporting student success:
1. Develop multiple entryways
Traditional entry routes screen out many talented students whose school background does not fully reflect their potential. Institutions can increase participation by offering foundation programs including higher certificates, extended course streams, bridging courses and alternative entry routes.
These flexible entry points acknowledge that academic readiness is not equally available in all communities. By providing targeted academic preparation, institutions can identify and nurture talent that might otherwise be left behind without lowering standards.
“Increasing participation does not mean lowering academic standards, but rather creating appropriate pathways that enable students to reach those standards,” says Kriel.
2. Strengthen transition assistance programs
The jump from school to higher education is often challenging. Students face new academic demands, requiring greater independence and advanced analytical skills. Strong orientation programs, First Year Experience initiatives, and structured academic skills workshops help ease this transition.
Kriel says active support in the critical first year greatly improves retention and lays the foundation for long-term success.
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3. Invest in educational development initiatives
Continuous support is necessary. Tutoring services, writing centers, peer-assisted learning programs, and dedicated academic development resources help students bridge knowledge gaps and build confidence. These initiatives are especially valuable for students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education, turning potential struggles into opportunities for growth.
4. Use data to quickly identify at-risk students
Institutions should use student success analytics to detect challenges before they become crises. Early warning systems allow timely intervention – whether through additional teaching, counseling or personal support.
“Proactive data-driven approaches dramatically improve completion rates and ensure that expanded access translates into real graduation outcomes,” says Kriel.
5. Create inclusive and adaptive learning environments
Students succeed best when they feel they belong. Inclusive campuses that respect diversity, foster belonging and value different backgrounds help students fully engage in their studies. AI and adaptive technologies further enhance this by enabling personalized 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 of success.
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Broad impact and shared responsibility
Once students complete their qualifications, the benefits are multiplied, says Kriel.
“Graduates obtain 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 efficient communities, and broader economic growth.”
Students also have an important role.
He advises that actively using the support services available, building good study habits, managing time effectively, connecting with lecturers and staying curious can make a significant difference.
At the same time, institutions must recognize that many students enter higher education dealing with financial pressures, family responsibilities, or personal challenges. Support systems must therefore be visible, accessible and proactive – reaching students before they ask for help.
“Expanding access to quality higher education is one of South Africa's greatest opportunities for meaningful change. This does not mean simply increasing enrollment numbers, but a proactive strategy to unlock human potential, enabling individuals to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the broader economy.”