Tana Malinga
A bold new era in African higher education has officially begun following Advtech’s announcement of the launch of Rosebank International, a transformative evolution of the long-established IIE Rosebank College as it advances towards full university status.
The landmark move signals far more than a name change. It reflects a growing ambition to position Africa at the centre of global academic excellence while expanding access to world-class tertiary education across the continent.
For decades, Rosebank College has built a reputation for producing skilled, work-ready graduates. Now, under the new Rosebank International identity, the institution is stepping confidently into the future with a stronger continental vision focused on innovation, research, technology and academic leadership.
Advtech.co.za said the launch strengthens its pan-African higher education strategy and aligns South Africa with broader opportunities across the continent. The institution will work closely with Rosebank International University College in Ghana, creating a powerful platform for academic exchange, collaboration and cross-border research.
Group CEO Geoff Whyte described the launch as the next chapter of an iconic education brand that continues to shape Africa’s future through transformative learning and graduate success.
Leading the vision is Prof Linda Meyer, who delivered some of the most inspiring moments of the launch event, painting a picture of an institution determined to elevate Africa’s place in global education.
“Through Rosebank International, we are creating opportunities for international academic collaboration while developing graduates prepared for African contexts and global relevance,” said Prof Meyer.
She further emphasized the institution’s continental mission, declaring: “We will position Africa as a knowledge gateway and active contributor to global knowledge production.”
Prof Meyer also highlighted the importance of strengthening African-led education systems and academic excellence across borders.
“As a conduit for international academic exchange, we are advancing pan-Africanism as academic practice,” she said.
In one of the launch event’s most memorable remarks, Prof Meyer passionately championed confidence in African education, saying: “Our students must study here in Africa. We have the best minds.”
The institution’s impressive academic performance continues to fuel confidence in its university ambitions. With an 85% module success rate, strong graduate employability and growing research contribution, Rosebank International is rapidly establishing itself as a modern institution built on achievement, opportunity and impact.
Students are expected to benefit from expanded accredited programmes, technologically advanced campuses and an energetic student environment designed to prepare graduates for the demands of a fast-changing global economy.
Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Dr Mimmy Gondwe welcomed the development, describing it as a powerful example of how public and private sector partnerships can help unlock greater access to quality university-level education across South Africa and the African continent.
With momentum building behind its ambitious vision, Rosebank International is now positioning itself not only as a future university, but as a symbol of African educational excellence ready to compete on the global stage.
