Presented by Milpark

Top tertiary education trends South Africans must look out for in 2025

 ·16 Jan 2025

Tertiary education is in a constant state of evolution, a trend that will persist into 2025. Staying informed about the latest developments in the sector is crucial for stakeholders to effectively plan and adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities.

As a leader in online tertiary education, Milpark Education has pinpointed four key areas where significant advancements are anticipated in 2025

1. Recognising reputable organisations

The rapid growth of online learning presents exciting opportunities, including increased accessibility, flexibility, and the ability to reach diverse learners worldwide. However, this expansion has also given rise to low-quality, fly-by-night organisations that prioritise profit over student success.

To make the most of the opportunities online learning offers, prospective students must exercise due diligence. Rather than being swayed by surface-level promises, they should assess whether the institution has a proven track record of delivering a comprehensive and high-quality education experience. This ensures they choose a provider committed to their long-term success and growth and one that is able to offer them a comprehensive education experience.

Milpark Education is a leader in this regard with a firm vision to enable students to become more than they dared imagine, unlocking their potential and shaping a collective future. Through its Blue Pledge, Milpark Education highlights five key attributes it strives to instil in every graduate by the time they complete their studies:

  • Human first, digitally fluent – Graduates prioritise empathy and human connections while embracing digital skills in a tech-driven world.
  • South African-inspired, globally relevant – Graduates bring unique perspectives rooted in the rich and diverse cultures of South Africa that resonate both locally and internationally.
  • Creative problem solvers, resilient enactors – Graduates are equipped with the ability to think outside the box and face-challenges head-on by embracing innovation.
  • Relevant contributors, active collaborators – Graduates are prepared to bring valuable insights and skills to their fields, driving purpose and creating solutions that matter.
  • Excellence within, service beyond – Graduates strive for self-improvement and are dedicated to achieving individual success while making a meaningful impact in their communities and society at large.

With these attributes, Milpark Education graduates are well-equipped for their future careers making them sought after employees.

2. The importance of technology in the modern workplace

Technology is playing a critical role in almost every industry, and the education sector is no exception. It is therefore critical that education institutions give learners the appropriate technical expertise and digital skills to thrive once they enter the modern workplace.

Emerging trends for graduates highlight the need sustainability awareness and an entrepreneurial mindset and digital skills are a priority. However, the importance of simultaneously embracing the need for digital literacy in the modern workplace, without losing track of the importance of the human touch – making Human first, digitally fluent more relevant than ever before.

3. Enabling students to pursue learning while living life to the fullest

In 2025, the trend towards young South Africans favouring online learning will continue and institutions like Milpark Education are setting the standard. Established in 1997, Milpark Education is proud to be one of South Africa’s pioneering private providers of higher education and the institution’s accreditations and partnerships are testament to the quality, relevance and track record of its qualifications.

Milpark Education combines world-class qualifications with trusted, leading, online learning journeys and high levels of holistic support that are accessible and transformative so that students have the ability to work and study, while living life to the fullest. This transformative approach to flexible learning is set to become the standard in the coming year.

4. Adapting to modern learning with superior student support

Forward-thinking online tertiary education institutions will focus on combining their native flexibility with excellent student support in 2025.

This is one of the areas where elite online learning institutions will differentiate themselves from the competition. Adapting to the demands of modern learning, Milpark Education places a strong emphasis on delivering superior student support. From personalised academic guidance and mentorship to robust online resources and flexible study options, Milpark ensures that every learner has the tools, encouragement, and infrastructure needed to thrive. This commitment extends to fostering a sense of community, providing mental health and wellness support, and equipping students with practical skills to navigate their studies and professional journeys with confidence.

In 2025, South Africans should prepare for a dynamic shift in tertiary education, driven by advancements in technology, flexibility in learning, and a renewed focus on holistic student support. By staying informed and choosing institutions with a proven track record like Milpark Education, learners can unlock their potential and thrive in an ever-evolving world. The future of education is here—accessible, transformative, and designed to empower the leaders of tomorrow.

Click here to learn more about Milpark Education.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter