By Mapaballo Borotho

- The Department of Higher Education and Training says progress is being made towards establishing the University of Ekurhuleni.
- Four potential sites in Boksburg have been identified, while feasibility studies and funding processes continue.
- If all approvals are secured, construction of the permanent campus is expected to begin in 2029.
There’s some light at the end of the tunnel for Ekurhuleni residents who would like to further their studies at a university closer to home.
The Department of Higher Education and Training says progress is being made towards the establishment of the University of Ekurhuleni.
This comes after the identification of potential sites in Boksburg, comprising three municipal properties and one property owned by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.
“A final site has not yet been selected, pending completion of Phase 2 feasibility studies, including infrastructure suitability and location assessments.
Following a period of delay arising from financial constraints, the remaining feasibility work has recommenced, and the Programme Steering Committee is in the process of being reconstituted,” said Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela.
Manamela added that the 2026 National Budget further confirmed National Treasury’s willingness to consider Budget Facility for Infrastructure support for new university developments, creating an important pathway for the future financing of the project.
The department is also exploring interim delivery arrangements that would allow students in Ekurhuleni to begin accessing higher education opportunities before the completion of permanent infrastructure.
Subject to the completion of the feasibility process, funding approvals and design work, construction of the permanent campus is projected to commence in 2029.
“The establishment of a university in Ekurhuleni remains a strategic priority. We have moved beyond concept and aspiration to active planning and site identification.
Our objective is to build infrastructure and expand access to higher education for communities that need it most,” added Minister Manamela.
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