South African Universities Move Up World Rankings and Start Teaching AI Skills

South African universities are doing better in world rankings. This is good news for students and job seekers. It means a degree from a South African university can carry more weight when you look for work at home or in other countries.

UCT moved up to 147th in the world. The University of Pretoria reached its best spot ever. Five South African universities are now in the global top 500. More universities are also on the list this year, including Walter Sisulu University, Tshwane University of Technology, the University of Venda, Vaal University of Technology and Durban University of Technology.

Why this matters for your career

• Better-ranked universities often have stronger links with companies that hire graduates.
• Some employers check rankings when they choose who to interview.
• More ranked universities means more students across the country can benefit.

AI is now part of learning

University leaders at the summit said AI is here to stay. UCT has stopped using tools that try to catch students using AI. Instead, it now teaches students how to use AI properly. Other countries like Canada are doing the same thing.

Employers want workers who can use AI tools, but they also want people who can think, solve problems and work well with others. Minister Buti Manamela said six out of ten young South Africans are unemployed. He said universities, TVET colleges and CET colleges must train people for real jobs. He also said companies must work more closely with universities so that what students learn matches what jobs need.

The big message is simple: learning does not stop when you finish school or university. You must keep learning new skills, especially digital and AI skills, to stay employable.