This year has been filled with exciting developments, and we’re thrilled to share the highlights with you! From a range of impactful SAAIR events in the second half of the year like our conference to the launch of the Special Interest Group on Strategic and Enrolment Planning, as well as key sector activities and the election of the new EXCO for 2024–2026, there’s much to reflect on. We hope you enjoy this final edition of our 2024 newsletter!

31st ANNUAL SAAIR CONFERENCE

The 31^st SAAIR Conference was hosted by Tshwane University of Technology from the 5^th to the 8^th of November 2024 under the theme TRUE: Transformed Reimagined University Experience.  The conferenced highlighted the evolution of universities amid global shifts, exploring efficiency, inclusivity, AI's impact, and graduate readiness.  The Pre-conference Workshops were held on the 5^th of November focused on leveraging advanced technologies and analytical tools to address critical issues in higher education. Topics included ethical AI use in research, predictive analytics for student success, transformative trends in education through bibliometric analysis, and agile decision-making using automation and visualization tools. These sessions were aimed at equipting participants with innovative strategies to enhance institutional efficiency and student outcomes.

We were thrilled to host four keynote speakers at the 2024 Conference. Three of them attended in person and are pictured below. We sincerely appreciate their valuable contributions to the event. Featured in the photo are Prof. Karen Vignare (ALPU), Dr. Denyse Webbstock (University of Johannesburg), and Prof. Bill Tucker (Stellenbosch University).

Conference Presenters

We had over thirty presenters delivering their work across three thematic streams: Optimising University Efficiency and Effectiveness, Transformed and Reimagined Inclusiveness, and The Impact of Artificial Intelligence and Initiatives. We sincerely thank all the presenters for their hard work in preparing and sharing their valuable insights with the conference delegates.

Glits & Glamour Gala Dinner

Delegates share their reflections on the 2024 SAAIR Conference

Dr. Carla Enslin and Willie Scheepers from IIE share their reflections on the 2024 SAAIR Conference, offering insights from the perspective of private institutions as well as first-time attendees. Watch the short video below to hear their key takeaways.

ACCESS THE CONFERENCE PHOTOS HERE

Congratulations to the winners of the 2024 SAAIR Scholarship: Ishana Gangaram (University of KwaZulu-Natal), Dimakatso Sebothoma (University of Cape Town), Dr Loquitur Maka (University of the Free State), Dr Mmabatho Makamedi (Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University), Christopher Strydom (University of the Free State) and Ziyanda Tyam (Walter Sisulu University).  The scholars are pictured below with the outgoing SAAIR President Dr Liile Lerato Lekena-Bayaga, outgoing SAAIR Exco Member Takalani Muloiwa-Klenam and incoming SAAIR President Elizabeth Booi.

Read the scholars reflections of the SAAIR Conference here.

The HEMIS Institute was hosted by North-West University, from 20-23 August 2024 in Potchefstroom and was attended by 121 delegates.  The workshop’s title, a ‘Higher Education Overview’ was well received, and the purpose was to provide a comprehensive understanding of various processes within the higher education sector and their interrelationships. It aimed to offer insights into high-level operations, key stakeholders, impacts, and challenges faced by the sector.  The HEMIS Institute employed a collaborative workshop approach, where delegates examined various processes in the HEMIS life-cycle, identified best practices, and generated solutions to common issues. The methodology aimed to enhance the shared HEMIS body of knowledge among institutions, and provided a fresh perspective on daily challenges, and fostered mutual support between colleagues from different institutions.

ACCESS THE FULL HEMIS PHOTO ALBUM HERE

The 2024 SAAIR Institutional Research Institute, hosted by Walter Sisulu University from 18-20 September 2024, explored the theme "From Insight to Action: Multi-Inter-Transdisciplinary Strategies in Institutional Decision-Making." The event emphasised the integration of diverse disciplines to address complex challenges in higher education. Key sessions covered data literacy, analytical methodologies, collaborative problem-solving, and emerging trends in institutional research. Expert-led discussions focused on using interdisciplinary approaches to enhance decision-making, promote equity, and build strategic partnerships. The program combined theoretical insights with practical applications, providing participants with tools to drive innovation and improve institutional outcomes in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

ACCESS THE FULL IR PHOTO ALBUM HERE

The SAAIR Quality Forum 2024 was hosted by UKZN from 21-22 November 2024 in Durban under the theme  "Beyond the Margins: Redefining and Transforming Practice for Contextually Relevant Quality Assurance in Higher Education." The event was attended by 80 delegates and it explored key themes such as digital transformation, internal quality systems, collaborative partnerships, and professionalisation of quality assurance. Esteemed speakers shared insights on AI in quality assurance, micro-credentials, and African partnerships in higher education. Interactive sessions, including panel discussions and a World Café, encouraged dialogue on transitioning to blended learning and inter-institutional collaboration. The forum reinforced the importance of innovation and data-driven approaches in advancing higher education quality.  The 2024 Quality Institute & Forum was a huge success overall and we thank the organising team at UKZN for enabling SAAIR to run yet another fantastic event.

ACCESS THE FULL QF PHOTO ALBUM HERE

2024 Quality Forum delegates reflect on their experience of attending the Forum hosted by UKZN.  Dr Luyanda Marhaya (VUT), Roelanie Boersema (AROS) and Dimakatso Sebothoma (UCT) share their personal experiences in the short videos below.

SAAIR President 2022-2024, Dr Liile Lerato Lekena-Bayaga (MUT), launched the Strategic and Enrolment Planning (SEP) Special Interest Group (SIG) at the 31st SAAIR Conference during November 2024.  The SIG was launched through a panel discussion chaired by Dr. Liile Lekena-Bayaga, with panelists from diverse institutions.

Panelists included Dr. Nandarani Maistry (University of Johannesburg), Ayanda Nongogo (University of KwaZulu-Natal), Ntsundeni Mapatagane (Walter Sisulu University), Harshilla Dulabh (University of the Witwatersrand), Gerliza Vogler (University of Pretoria) and Dr. Remy Nnadozie (Rhodes University).  Each panelist shared insights into effective strategic and enrolment planning, establishing a foundation for collaborative efforts to drive the SIG’s objectives.  The key recommendations and discussion outcomes are outlined here.

VUT MAKING STRIDES IN THE ANALYTICS SPACE

The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) is taking significant steps toward advancing its data analytics capabilities. From November 18th to 22nd, 2024, the institution hosted a Power BI Training Workshop aimed at enhancing the analytical skills of its staff. Facilitated by Mr Innocent Mamvura (SAAIR Exco Member 2024-2026), the workshop provided comprehensive training in Power BI, equipping participants with skills in data importation, transformation, modeling with DAX, visualization techniques, and sharing interactive reports.

This initiative underscores VUT's dedication to building capacity and fostering a data-driven culture within the institution. With data analytics playing an increasingly pivotal role in higher education, this workshop supports the Department of Higher Education's focus on using data to drive informed decision-making across universities.

"The data analytics and student success space has been recognized as a cornerstone of success in universities. We are promoting the use of data analytics in our decision-making processes across institutions," stated Mr. Mamvura.

By empowering its staff with advanced analytics tools and skills, VUT is positioning itself as a leader in leveraging data for institutional improvement. Such efforts not only enhance decision-making processes but also contribute to better institutional performance and improved student outcomes.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the SAAIR EXCO Members for their service and support to the association during the 2022–2024 term. Your effort and dedication are truly appreciated.  Pictured below Benjamin Ntshabele (SMU), Michael Gordon (TUT), Dr. Liile Lerato Lekena-Bayaga (MUT), Elizabeth Booi (UWC), Lisa Cloete (UCT), René Robbertze (SU), Takalani Muloiwa-Klenam (UJ) and Taabo Mugume (UFS).

SAAIR Exco Members 2022-2024 pictured below during the strategic planning meeting in November 2023. 

Dear SAAIR Members and Partners,
As we approach the festive season, I greet you on behalf of the SAAIR Executive Committee 2024-2026 with gratitude and excitement. This is a season to reflect on the milestones we have achieved together, celebrate the unwavering spirit of our community, and prepare for the opportunities ahead.

Firstly, I extend my heartfelt thanks to the outgoing President, Dr. Liile Lerato Lekena-Bayaga and the 2022–2024 Executive Committee for their remarkable leadership and commitment to advancing the mission and vision of SAAIR. Your contributions have laid a strong foundation on which we can continue to build, and we are truly grateful for your service and dedication.

To our valued sponsors, IDSC and Quantum Solution, your support has enabled SAAIR to pursue its mission and host a successful 31^st SAAIR Conference. We sincerely appreciate your partnership and shared commitment to excellence. To our members, partners, and host institutions, we thank you for your active participation, engagement, and dedication to keeping the SAAIR community vibrant and impactful. Your contributions, whether through sharing knowledge, participating in events, or supporting one another, are the heartbeat of this organisation.

As we look ahead, the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, marked by opportunities and challenges that call for innovative, data-informed approaches. This term, we will focus on advancing evidence-based, data-driven excellence, influencing strategic policy, fostering professional growth, developing capacity in emerging technologies, and delivering sustainable value to our members. Together, we will build on the solid legacy of previous EXCO teams, driving meaningful change and impact across the sector.

In the coming months, we aim to engage more with our members, strengthen collaborations, and prioritise inclusivity and innovation in everything we do. I invite you to actively participate in SAAIR programmes, share your valuable insights, and help shape the future of higher education in Southern Africa and beyond. Please take a moment to complete SAAIR's inaugural membership satisfaction survey.

Regards
Elizabeth Booi
SAAIR President (2024–2026)

Congratulations to the newly elected SAAIR Executive Committee 2024-2026!.  Pictured below from left to right, Benjamin Ntshabele (SMU), Innocent Mamvura (Wits), Dr. Munienge Mbodila (WSU), Dr. Hossein Massoumi Karakani (UP), Ashton Maherry (SAIDE), Valentine Maroga (TUT), Elizabeth Booi (UWC) and Dr. Sannah Patience Mativandlela (UNIVEN).

We are excited to launch the SAAIR Members Satisfaction Survey and warmly invite you to participate. Please click on the link below to complete this brief survey at your earliest convenience.

We look forward to welcoming you to our key events in 2025, especially the 32nd SAAIR Conference, which will be hosted by the University of Venda from October 27th to 31st, 2025.  Members are encouraged to step forward and express their interest in hosting SAAIR events for 2025 and 2026.

Register to attend the CHE Higher Education Conference 2025.  For more information, click here.