First-Year Placements Limited, but Higher Education Minister Says System Ready for 2026

Loading player...
South Africa’s universities and colleges are bracing for another influx of hopefuls in 2026 - but space is limited. Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela says about 235,000 spots will be available at universities, 170,000 at TVET colleges, and 130,000 at community colleges. That’s still only enough for half of the learners who qualify. With more matriculants earning bachelor’s passes and NSFAS facing financial strain, Manamela admits not everyone will be placed. The minister joins Phemelo live in studio to unpack his plans for the higher education sector.
16 Sep 2025 4PM English South Africa Education · Careers

Other recent episodes

SoNA 2026

Point of View with Phemelo Motene, delves into the day’s current affairs, touching on real issues and sharing expert advice on the audience questions between 8pm to 10pm Mondays to Thursdays.
12 Feb 3PM 1 hr 10 min

Legal Matters: From Courtroom Contempt to Hospital Hazards

This week on Legal Matters, Nthabiseng Dubazana breaks down some intriguing cases, including a hospital visitor pricked by a used needle, the controversy over speaking IsiXhosa in court, and the latest on Schedule 6 bail applicants. She also answers listeners’ burning legal questions, making sense of the law in everyday…
11 Feb 3PM 48 min

Book feature: Tribute To My Mother In Law

Author Hope Pooe joins Phemelo to discuss her book Tribute to my mother-in-law, a heartfelt and practical reflection on one of the most delicate family relationships. Drawing from lived experience, Pooe offers guidance, perspective and emotional insight into building understanding between a mother-in-law and her son’s wife.
10 Feb 3PM 18 min

Joburg Water strike ends after bonus dispute, services resume

An unprotected strike by Johannesburg Water workers has officially ended after days of disruption linked to unpaid December bonuses and disputes over deductions. The action, which began on Friday, coincided with Rand Water throttling supply to Joburg and Tshwane due to excessive usage, compounding pressure on an already strained system…
10 Feb 3PM 26 min