For a postgraduate study journey that’s as unique as you are, choose IIE MSA

By Alex Asakitikpi, School of Social Science Head at IIE MSA

 

There is a common misconception amongst students that there is only one post-graduate path they can follow to achieve their career goals and dreams. The truth, however, is that while the traditional ‘undergraduate – honours – masters – doctorate’ path is a tried and tested way, this is just one of the approaches to achieving high employability status. In fact, your postgraduate journey can, and should be as unique as you are. At IIE MSA a leading educational brand of The Independent Institution of Education the largest private higher education service provider in South Africa, we firmly believe in giving our students the opportunities they need to tailor their post-graduate studies to their exact needs, study preferences, and career aspirations.

 

That’s why we offer a range of world-class IIE postgraduate study options that are structured to allow you to comfortably fit learning into your busy life. The options are also designed to expand your theoretical knowledge and insight, deepen your global perspective, and set you up for the success you deserve.

 

An excellent example of this customised postgraduate knowledge expansion journey is the selection of IIE Postgraduate Diplomas. These in-depth postgraduate qualifications are specifically structured with the time constraints of busy professionals in mind, and allow you to study full or part-time, depending on your employment situation. They are highly specialised and fully accredited by the South African Council on Higher Education. The modules have been crafted to expand your theoretical knowledge as well as your practical skills in very specific, and highly sought-after fields, including water management, public health, finance, accounting, corporate governance, internal auditing and business leadership.

 

For example, the IIE Postgraduate Diploma in Water Management is a two-year qualification that’s designed to equip students to become highly effective managers with a full understanding of the world’s complex water challenges, and the insights to lead their organisations and government to develop and deliver practical solutions to most water and sanitation problems. In a water-stressed country like South Africa, this qualification is a career changer that can open opportunities in various water fields, from river basin management, groundwater management, water supply and sanitation to water resource planning, water resource economics and water treatment.

 

The IIE Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health is another avenue that is open to IIE MSA students who want to unlock the door to rewarding and meaningful careers. It offers a contextualised and highly relevant platform to acquire or enhance knowledge and skills related to all-important public health service delivery systems.

 

While the IIE Postgraduate Diplomas are not intended to replace an honours degree, they offer a valuable alternative for anyone who wants to enhance their expertise, and employability, in a specific field. Many graduates holding these IIE Postgraduate Diploma qualifications have found themselves able to access promotion opportunities because of the qualifications they have acquired. They are also excellent postgraduate alternatives for students who want to balance their personal and work life with education. For those who wish to specialise in the finance and accounting fields, it is useful to consider completing the full-time programmes of IIE Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting or the IIE Postgraduate Diploma in Finance and Accounting. For students who wish to specialise in the sought-after internal auditing field, study a part-time IIE Postgraduate Diploma in Internal Auditing offered at IIEMSA

In addition to the above, IIE MSA also offers various other IIE postgraduate options especially for those who want to build on their undergraduate studies with a formal IIE Honours degree. Most of these are full-time postgraduate degree courses with significant supervised research components. The five IIE Honours Degree courses offered at IIE MSA in Computer and Information Sciences, Social Science, Business Science, Public Health and Economics, are the ideal pathways for sound theoretical and practical knowledge that is recognised, and which give students a competitive advantage in local and global job markets.

 

For those who have already acquired their honour’s degree, IIE MSA also offers a selection of accredited IIE Master’s Degrees designed specifically to further hone their specialist skills and develop in-depth and advanced knowledge across a range of disciplines. The two IIE Master of Philosophy degrees, in Arts and in Integrated Water Management, have been crafted to educate and train IIE graduates to become accomplished researchers who can contribute to the advancement of knowledge in a specific field. These qualifications are also a proven way of gaining access to advanced, specialised, and professional employment opportunities. The IIE Master of Philosophy (MPhil) curricula are heavily biased towards research, and students are assigned to accomplished researchers who assist them throughout the intensive process of researching their chosen topic and guiding their thesis to completion.

 

The process not only results in a highly regarded IIE postgraduate qualification, but also serves to build skills like critical thinking, problem solving, statistics and data management, knowledge transfer and effective leadership – all of which significantly enhance the employability of IIE Master’s degree graduates.

 

Another two master’s degree options offered at IIE MSA are the IIE Master of Business Administration (MBA) qualification and the IIE Master of International Business (MIB). The MBA prepares working professionals to be leaders, to understand universal business problems and challenges in the South African and global context and to apply best practices and management styles. MBA programmes are typically designed to provide a high level of theoretical engagement, intellectual independence and the ability to resolve complex business problems in an innovative way. The MIB, is a specialised degree that will enable you to transform from a traditional business manager into a global business leader who understands the complexity of managing in a global society. This qualification specifically focuses on strategic planning for international operations and provides an in-depth understanding of the organisational capabilities required for international operations, including specialised functions such as international marketing, finance, economics and trade law. The degree includes classes that address topics such as imports and exports and intercultural communication against the background of changes brought about by the fourth industrial revolution.



Unlike the research-focused MPhil degrees, the IIE MBA and IIE MIB are professional degrees that have been specifically engineered to provide students with a high level of theoretical and intellectual depth that are required to solve complex business problems. A graduate holding the IIE MBA or IIE MIB qualification is equipped to lead organisations or business divisions through the application of global best practices and proven management styles. The IIE curriculum includes a unique “Innovation Research Project”, that requires students to apply their theoretical knowledge to research and deliver innovative strategic solutions to a complex business challenge or issue. IIE MBA and IIE MIB graduates have gone on to hold various executive leadership positions in local and global organisations, including serving as directors, CEOs, and senior functional specialists.

 

Registration at IIE MSA for 2022 is now open. Visit www.iiemsa.co.za to find out more about the IIE programmes offered. While you’re there, click on the ‘Enquire’ link to arrange a no obligation consultation with one of our student advisors. Alternatively email us at enquiries@iiemsa.co.za or call us on +27 11 950 4000.

ADvTECH Updates

IIE implements AI-enhanced learning management system in partnership with global edtech leader D2L

By Tamara Thomas • July 29, 2025
The Independent Institute of Education (The IIE), South Africa’s leading private higher education provider, has set a new benchmark for technology-enabled learning in the country by designing a comprehensive education technology ecosystem with Brightspace, the flagship platform of global EdTech leader D2L, as its foundation. This initiative marks the beginning of a transformative, technology-driven learning experience for over 65,000 students across The IIE’s tertiary education brands and Evolve Online School, representing the largest implementation of the Brightspace platform in South Africa to date. Brightspace is a cutting-edge learning management system (LMS) that moves beyond the limitations of traditional, static content delivery of traditional LMS platforms. It seamlessly integrates advanced digital tools, artificial intelligence, and interactive features to create engaging, data-informed educational experiences. “This strategic investment underscores The IIE’s commitment to redefining higher education in South Africa through innovation, scalability, and student-centric design,” says Louise Wiseman, Managing Director of The IIE ’s Varsity College, Vega & IIE MSA. Brightspace serves over 20 million students globally across schools, higher education institutions, enterprises, and membership organisations. Its adoption by The IIE marks a groundbreaking shift in South Africa’s higher education landscape, as it is among the first platforms of its kind to seamlessly integrate sophisticated content authoring tools, world-class accessibility features, a student-centric design, and advanced learning analytics. “Unlike traditional learning management systems used in South Africa, Brightspace offers a seamless, intuitive user experience with unparalleled customisation and interactivity. Its implementation across The IIE’s portfolio of over 130 programmes, from Higher Certificate to Doctorate level, positions it as a pioneering solution tailored to meet the unique demands of South African students and educators,” says Wiseman. Dr Mario Landman, Head of Education Technology and Innovation at The IIE, says the institution selected Brightspace after an extensive evaluation of the world’s leading LMS platforms. The selection process prioritised feature richness, user experience, scalability and alignment with the organisation’s commitment to delivering an enhanced and future-focused academic product. “Brightspace emerged as the optimal choice as its advanced tools, customisation capabilities and collaborative features perfectly align with our vision of fostering an enriched learning experience for our students and faculty,” he says. Brightspace stands out from other platforms in the South African market due to its innovative features and alignment with modern educational needs. One of its key strengths is its interactive, AI-enhanced content creation tools, which allow educators to develop dynamic course materials - such as videos and gamified elements - without the need for advanced technical expertise. This capability promotes greater student engagement and personalisation of learning by moving beyond the static content delivery model typical of traditional LMS platforms. Additionally, the platform provides Advanced Learning Analytics that enable educators to monitor student progress, identify challenges, and optimise outcomes. This data-driven approach empowers institutions to make informed decisions to enhance teaching and learning. It also supports modern pedagogies, and is scalable and flexible.  “Brightspace is a game-changer for the higher education sector in South Africa, where diverse student populations require tailored educational solutions to ensure each student has the opportunity and ability to perform to the best of their ability, and to ensure consistently superior academic outcomes,” Wiseman says.

SENS Announcement | 7 July 2025

By Tamara Thomas • July 7, 2025
ADvTECH Limited (Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa) (Registration number 1990/001119/06) Share code: ADH ISIN: ZAE000031035 (“ADvTECH” or “the Company”) DISPOSAL OF SECURITIES BY CLIENTS OF PUBLIC INVESTMENT CORPORATION SOC LIMITED (“PIC”) AND DIRECTORS RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT – VOLUNTARY ANNOUNCEMENT In accordance with section 122(3)(b) of the Companies Act, No. 71 of 2008 as amended and section 3.83(b) of the JSE Limited Listings Requirements, shareholders are hereby advised that ADvTECH has received formal notification in the prescribed form that PIC’s clients have, in aggregate, disposed of an interest in the ordinary shares of the Company, such that the total interest in the ordinary shares of the Company held by PIC’s clients has decreased from 20.550% to 19.641% of the total issued ordinary shares of the Company. In terms of section 122(3)(a) of the Act, the Company has also filed notice with the Takeover Regulation Panel.  The board of directors of ADvTECH accepts responsibility for the information contained in this announcement as it relates to the Company and confirms that, to the best of its knowledge and belief, such information relating to ADvTECH is true and that this announcement does not omit anything likely to affect the importance of such information. Johannesburg 7 July 2025 Sponsor: Bridge Capital Advisors Proprietary Limited

ADvTECH appoints John Sikiotis as Group Chief Operating Officer

By Tamara Thomas • July 1, 2025
JSE-listed ADvTECH, Africa’s leading private education provider, is pleased to announce the appointment of John Sikiotis to the role of Group Chief Operating Officer (GCOO), effective 1 August 2025. Sikiotis brings a wealth of experience in strategy, IT, business development and commercial leadership across a wide range of industries in multiple geographies including Africa, the Middle East and Asia. He is a qualified CA(SA) and holds the professional designation of Chartered Financial Analyst. He is also a member of SAICA.  The new role of GCOO has been established to support ADvTECH’s dynamic growth and expanding operations locally and internationally. “John’s strategic expertise and global perspective make him a valuable addition to our leadership team,” commented ADvTECH Group CEO, Geoff Whyte.

SENS Announcement | 30 June 2025

By Tamara Thomas • June 30, 2025
ADvTECH Limited (Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa) (Registration number 1990/001119/06) Share code: ADH ISIN: ZAE000031035 (“ADvTECH” or “the Company”) DEALINGS IN SECURITIES BY DIRECTORS, A DIRECTOR OF A MAJOR SUBSIDIARY, PRESCRIBED OFFICERS AND THE GROUP COMPANY SECRETARY In terms of paragraphs 3.63 to 3.74 of the JSE Limited Listings Requirements (“JSE Listings Requirements”), the following transactions, in respect of which prior written approval pursuant to paragraph 3.66 of the JSE Listings Requirements have been obtained, is hereby disclosed.

SENS Announcement | 27 June 2025

By Tamara Thomas • June 27, 2025
ADvTECH Limited (Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa) (Registration number 1990/001119/06) Share code: ADH ISIN: ZAE000031035 (“ADvTECH” or “the Company”) DEALINGS IN SECURITIES BY AN ASSOCIATE OF A DIRECTOR OF A MAJOR SUBSIDIARY OF THE COMPANY In compliance with the JSE Limited Listings Requirements the following information is disclosed in respect of dealings in ADvTECH securities by an associate of a Director of a major subsidiary (The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd) of the Company.

AI in education: supporting teachers, not replacing them

By Tamara Thomas • June 27, 2025
It is undeniable that AI in education, even though still in relative infancy, has a multiplier effect on student outcomes. An overview of the substantial impact of individualised learning on student performance over the past few years, combined with an insight into daily advances in real life, has the potential to raise concern about the role of human educators in classrooms. Are teachers becoming obsolete? Not quite. While it is true that AI’s role is growing by the day, it is in fact not replacing teachers, but rather changing the role of teachers, an education expert says. “We have, over the past 3 years, seen a 20% improvement in student performance, with AI and individualised learning having become the order of the day,” says Desiree Hugo, Academic Head at ADvTECH Schools. AI in education isn’t a case of students having access to ChatGPT – it is a vastly more considered strategy leveraging proprietary tools and platforms. ADvTECH’s ADvLEARN Intelligent Tutoring System is a prime example, utilising AI to craft individualised learning paths that allow students to advance at their own speed. This system empowers data-guided instruction while fostering independent learning across various subjects. “Adaptive learning technologies leverage data-driven analysis to personalise educational content, pacing, and assessments based on each student's unique needs. These solutions, which include intelligent tutoring systems and learning management platforms, enable educators to tailor instruction efficiently without increasing their workload, when integrated effectively,” says Hugo. “For students, this creates a customised, engaging, and encouraging experience, whether they’re building core skills or exploring complex topics. For educators, it delivers real-time insights to refine teaching approaches, ensuring all students achieve progress.” AI systems are fast moving in the direction of students being able to learn completely independently, which then raises the question – what about the teachers? Will in-person schools still be a thing? Or will future learning consist of young people working alone, in front of their screens? “Adopting best international practices in AI implementation is critical to staying at the forefront of educational excellence. However, the narrative around AI in education must be clear: AI is a powerful tool to support, not replace, teachers,” says Hugo. “The human element in teaching, in particular empathy, creativity, and mentorship, remains irreplaceable, and AI’s role is to enhance these supportive opportunities, ensuring teachers remain central to the learning experience, while time-consuming repetitive tasks become the domain of AI.” The integration of AI into education really is a best-case scenario, allowing overworked teachers to get back to their unique strengths, Hugo says. WHY TEACHERS WILL REMAIN AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE EDUCATIONAL LANDSCAPE While AI excels at processing data and delivering personalised content, it lacks the human qualities that ensures an exceptional, holistic education. In the age of AI, the role of teachers will remain important in the following areas: Emotional connection and empathy - Learning is deeply human, driven by relationships. Teachers understand students’ emotional needs, motivate them through challenges, and celebrate their successes. No algorithm can replicate the encouragement of a teacher who notices a student’s potential or the trust built through years of mentorship. Fostering creativity and critical thinking - AI can provide information, but teachers guide students to question, innovate, and think critically. In a world increasingly shaped by AI, skills like ethical reasoning, collaboration, and creative problem-solving, nurtured by teachers, are essential. Curricula, like the IEB, IB and Cambridge systems, emphasize these skills, and ADvTECH’s commitment to global standards positions its teachers as key drivers of this development. Cultural and contextual nuance - South Africa’s diverse educational landscape requires teachers who understand local contexts, languages, and cultural dynamics. Teachers bridge the gap between AI and real-life context, ensuring learning is relevant and inclusive. “The fear that AI will replace teachers stems from a misunderstanding of its purpose, combined with the stunning realisation of its ability to improve student outcomes. But AI is not a substitute for human connection. Rather, it is a catalyst for unlocking teacher potential. It empowers teachers to do what they do best: inspire, guide, and transform lives.  “Imagine a classroom where AI handles repetitive tasks, provides real-time student insights, and suggests tailored resources, while the teacher focuses on sparking debates, nurturing talents, and building confidence. This is the future that educational institutions must champion - a future where technology supports human excellence, not replaces it.”

SENS Announcement | 25 June 2025

By Tamara Thomas • June 25, 2025
ADvTECH Limited (Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa) (Registration number 1990/001119/06) Share code: ADH ISIN: ZAE000031035 (“ADvTECH” or “the Company”) DEALINGS IN SECURITIES BY A PRESCRIBED OFFICER AND THE COMPANY SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY In compliance with the JSE Limited Listings Requirements the following information is disclosed in respect of dealings in ADvTECH securities by a Prescribed Officer and the Company Secretary of the Company.

SENS Announcement | 23 June 2025

By Tamara Thomas • June 23, 2025
ADvTECH Limited (Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa) (Registration number 1990/001119/06) Share code: ADH ISIN: ZAE000031035 (“ADvTECH” or “the Company”) DEALINGS IN SECURITIES BY PRESCRIBED OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATE OF A PRESCRIBED OFFICER OF THE COMPANY In compliance with the JSE Limited Listings Requirements the following information is disclosed in respect of dealings in ADvTECH securities by ADvTECH Prescribed Officers and an associate of a Prescribed Officer.

SENS Announcement | 20 June 2025

By Tamara Thomas • June 20, 2025
ADvTECH Limited (Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa) (Registration number 1990/001119/06) Share code: ADH ISIN: ZAE000031035 (“ADvTECH”) DEALINGS IN SECURITIES BY PRESCRIBED OFFICERS, A DIRECTOR OF A MAJOR SUBSIDIARY, AND COMPANY SECRETARY: SHARE VESTING In compliance with the JSE Limited Listings Requirements, the following transactions relating to prescribed officers, director of a major subsidiary and company secretary dealings are hereby disclosed, in terms of the provisions of the ADvTECH Management Share Incentive Scheme (MSI), regarding performance and retention shares that have vested after 3 years.

New mega law clinic to improve access to justice, raise bar for legal education in SA

By Tamara Thomas • June 19, 2025
Community law clinics play a vital role in ensuring access to justice in South Africa, annually serving thousands of people who are unable to afford legal services and representation. In response to the overwhelming demand for these lifeline services, SA’s leading private higher education provider has been steadfastly expanding its footprint of law clinics across the country, culminating in the recent launch of a mega-clinic in Randburg. The IIE Varsity College’s Randburg Community Law Clinic is a game-changer for the community, says Soretha Venter, senior attorney and Director of the clinics in the region. “It’s our most ambitious effort yet to bridge the gap in access to justice, ensuring marginalised individuals can exercise their legal rights while equipping our students with real-world skills,” Venter says. “Law clinics like ours promote fairness, equality, the rule of law, and transform lives by providing essential legal services while empowering our students to become empathetic, skilled legal professionals dedicated to social justice.” Venter says community law clinics play a pivotal role in addressing the systemic barriers to justice faced by underserved populations, particularly in South Africa, where economic disparities often limit access to legal services for many vulnerable citizens. “These clinics provide free legal advice, mediation services, and representation in matters such as family disputes, housing issues, employment conflicts, and consumer rights, empowering individuals who cannot afford private attorneys. By bridging this gap, law clinics ensure fair and equitable treatment for all, uphold human rights, and promote social cohesion by providing avenues for resolving disputes and addressing grievances.” Beyond resolving individual cases, they foster social justice through community outreach, offering workshops and campaigns on critical issues like domestic violence and discrimination, which educate the public and enhance awareness of legal protections. “The benefits to communities extend beyond immediate legal solutions, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and social change. Law clinics not only resolve disputes but also build trust in the legal system by providing accessible, compassionate support. They advocate for systemic improvements, collaborating with nonprofits and government agencies to address broader societal challenges,” Venter says. For instance, initiatives like family law mediation and post-litigation support for clients, as planned by the IIE Varsity College Randburg mega-clinic, offer sustainable solutions for low-income families. By equipping communities with knowledge and resources, these clinics strengthen social cohesion and promote a culture of justice, ensuring lasting impact for individuals and society as a whole. In addition to providing communities with free legal representation and support, law clinics ensure that SA’s future legal practitioners receive a real-world, holistic education. This year, more than 120 final-year students from three campuses will gain hands-on experience at the Randburg clinic, under the supervision of experienced attorneys. Groups of around eight students at a time work Monday through Thursday, immersing themselves in consultations, legal drafting, research, and court visits. “Students are exposed to every facet of a real law firm. This practical training not only hones their skills in client interaction and case management but also instils a deep sense of social responsibility,” says Venter, adding that the clinic prepares students for South Africa’s unique legal landscape while fostering a commitment to pro bono work. The Randburg mega clinic boasts 3 attorneys’ offices, 4 candidate legal practitioner spaces, a boardroom with state of the art digital and online facilities and 4 consultation rooms. It currently has 2 full time attorneys, 2 candidate legal practitioners and a legal intern, and the team will be growing in months to come. Since its launch, it has received 105 applications, of which 43 are still active matters that are attended to on a daily basis. It is expected that these numbers will have doubled by the end of 2025.  The Randburg mega-clinic builds on the success of IIE Varsity College’s earlier clinics established in Durban North (2022), Pretoria (April 2024), and Cape Town (July 2024). Another clinic is set to open in Nelson Mandela Bay in August 2025.