Only Half of Matriculants to Be Absorbed by Higher Education Institutions: What Happens to the Rest?

Half of the 850 000 matriculants who are expected to write their final exams this year will be accommodated to higher learning institutions in South Africa. Buti Manamela, the Higher Education Deputy Minister announced this at the University of Pretoria, Mamelodi Campus during the media briefing, 

More than 400 000 matriculants will not get space in higher learning institution in the 2026 academic year.

His announcement has shaken the entire country, raising concerns over what will happen to the rest of the learners who will finish matric but find no place in higher learning institutions.

Buti Manamela brought to light that many matriculants and parents think that when one has passed with a bachelor they automatically qualify for to study in universities and TVET Colleges. "that is mostly not the case" he said

“Every year many matriculants and young people are not accepted into universities due to space. Unless there’s a massive investment in community colleges, vocational training, and online learning platforms, this cycle will continue,” Dr. Palesa Mokoena, an education researcher from the University of Johannesburg stated.

While The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) has emphasized the importance of TVET colleges, learnerships, and skills development programmes as alternative options the issue of space is still a concern. 

Experts say that using a mix of learning methods could make education easier. “Online and hybrid learning can reach more students without needing them to be in a classroom,” said Kgomotso Ndlovu, director of Education Insight SA.

Currently in South Africa a public university that encourages online learning is the University of South Africa. UNISA offers distance learning and can accommodate a certain number of students a year, 

As the 2026 academic year approaches, thousands and thousands of matriculants remain unsure whether they will make the cut to the South African universities and TVET Colleges. 

"Between now and the next three months, we will be looking for solutions for the rest. Some will look for jobs, take a gap year or consider other options, but we must plan for those young people.” Manamela emphasised in closing.