The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mr Buti Manamela, congratulates the University of Cape Town (UCT) on its rise to joint 147th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2027, retaining its position as Africa’s highest-ranked university. Its return to the global top 150 is a significant achievement for UCT and South African higher education.
The Minister also commends UCT for hosting the first Times Higher Education World Academic Summit on African soil, in partnership with the University of Bristol. The summit, taking place from 29 September to 1 October 2026, brings global university leaders, researchers and policymakers to Cape Town.
“I congratulate Professor Mosa Moshabela, the university’s leadership, staff and students. This achievement reflects the sustained work of a university community whose contribution reaches well beyond its campus. UCT has also done our country and continent proud by bringing this important global conversation to Africa,” said Minister Manamela.
Minister Manamela participated in the summit’s discussions, addressing the relationship between government and universities, international collaboration, artificial intelligence and the responsibility of higher education to expand opportunity.
“My message was that universities must remain autonomous while being deeply engaged with the communities they serve. Government must protect academic freedom and create the conditions for teaching, research and innovation to flourish. Together, we must ensure that this work improves people’s lives, added the Minister.
Progress made was emphasised by the Minister of South African universities in the latest rankings and recognised the academics, researchers, professional staff and students whose work sustains the country’s international standing.
He further, emphasised that international recognition must strengthen the pursuit of access, transformation and public value across the higher education system.
The excellent work is celebrated by the Minister as well as the conditions that make the good work possible. “Our responsibility is to ensure that a young person’s background does not determine their access to quality education, and that the knowledge produced in our universities helps us confront unemployment, poverty and inequality said the Minister.
Drawing on his contribution to the summit, the Minister called for stronger partnerships between universities and industry to expand practical learning, employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. He also stressed the need to equip students and lecturers to use artificial intelligence responsibly, supported by connectivity, digital infrastructure and training.
The Minister encouraged delegates to translate the summit’s discussions into equitable partnerships, joint research and opportunities for students and academics across Africa.
“International collaboration must involve a real exchange of knowledge and opportunity. African universities have much to contribute. We must help shape the future of higher education.”
Enquiries: Matshepo Seedat Spokesperson to the Minister of Higher Education and Training to n 082 679 9473
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