Damelin, City Varsity And ICESA Face Possible Deregistration Over Higher Education Act Non-Compliance

Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela has taken steps that could see three prominent private colleges lose their registration after issuing a notice of intent to cancel their operating status.

The institutions affected are Damelin, City Varsity, and ICESA City Campus, following what the Department of Higher Education and Training described as repeated failures to comply with the Higher Education Act.

According to the department, the decision forms part of broader efforts to safeguard students and uphold standards within South Africa’s private higher education sector.

Failure to Meet Legal and Financial Requirements

The department said the colleges did not comply with essential statutory obligations, including the submission of annual reports required by law.

Officials confirmed that all three institutions failed to submit their 2024 annual reports, despite being granted several extensions and a final remedial deadline earlier this year.

In addition, the minister found that the institutions did not provide audited financial statements, valid tax compliance documentation, or sufficient proof of financial sustainability.

Damelin Not Among Institutions Confirmed to Have Ceased Operations

The department further revealed that City Varsity and ICESA City Campus have already stopped operating.

It said confirmation had been received that both institutions are no longer offering higher education programmes as defined by legislation.

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The notice of intent to cancel the registrations will now be published in the Government Gazette, allowing the affected institutions an opportunity to make formal representations.

The department said contingency measures are being prepared to assist students if the cancellation process goes ahead, with the focus remaining on minimising disruption to their studies.

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