Students who have applied to or are currently registered at City Varsity, Damelin and Icesa have been urged not to panic, despite the Department of Higher Education’s decision to deregister the institutions.
Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela has assured students that the integrity of qualifications obtained at the institutions remains valid. The department announced over the weekend that it intends to deregister the three colleges due to non-compliance, including failure to submit annual reports and to demonstrate financial sustainability.
According to the department, affected students will receive support during the transition. Those already enrolled will be protected through a teach-out process once the legal process is finalised. This process ensures that registered students are able to complete their studies even if the institutions are ultimately shut down.
Manamela has cautioned prospective students against paying any fees until the matter is resolved. He added that students who have already made payments are entitled to refunds, for which the institutions will be held liable.
The colleges have been given 10 days to respond should they wish to contest the decision. The Minister has acknowledged concerns about the timing of the announcement, which comes just weeks before the start of the 2026 academic year, but says the department is acting in line with procedures set out in the Higher Education Act.
Manamela also noted that there is sufficient capacity within public universities, private institutions, TVET colleges and community colleges to accommodate affected students if necessary.