HESA's strategy over this period will be based on fulfilling three key roles as follows:

  • Policy analysis and strategic research (Head)
  • Advocacy and stakeholder influence (Voice)
  • Sector support (Hands) 

These three roles are distinct but interdependent and together will provide the delivery of value from HESA. They are supported by a highly effective Finance and Administration function and a strong information base.

Policy Analysis and Strategic Research

The focus of this role is as follows:

  • To strengthen the existing Higher Education knowledge base.
  • To actively participate in, and influence the direction of, policy development.
  • To monitor and evaluate the current policy and regulatory environment particularly in terms of alignment.
  • To generate position papers that are useful and accessible to Higher Education leaders and decision-makers.
  • To develop policy analyses that are relevant and authoritative on key Higher Education issues.
  • To facilitate sector discussion and expert input to these issues by relevant networks.
  • To provide up-to-date and factual information for and about South African Higher Education institutions.
Advocacy and Stakeholder Influence

The focus of this role is as follows:
  • To increase the level of public awareness of the benefits provided by the sector, opportunities they create and the challenges they face with key audiences (government, business and the public) through a strategic communication strategy
  • To develop and strengthen networks, partnerships and relationships with key Higher Education organisations and stakeholder constituencies.
  • To provide up-to-date and relevant information for and about South African Higher Education.
  • To advance the sector's interests.
  • To facilitate and promote an understanding of HESA's work within institutions.
  • To position HESA as a leader in shaping the national Higher Education policy and regulatory agenda.

Sector Support

The focus of this role is as follows:

  • To support Higher Education Institutions in the advancement of their missions (teaching, research and community service).
  • To design and implement initiatives to develop capacity at institutions.
  • To work to improve the resources (human, financial and technological) available to institutions through economies of scale and scope.
  • To represent and advance the sector's interests through participation in national structures.
  • To promote and facilitate partnerships, collaboration and information sharing between institutions and with other organisations.
  • To provide up-to-date and relevant information for and about South African Higher Education to enhance decision-making.

Finance and Administration

The focus of this role is as follows:

  • To manage the financial, human resource and administrative affairs of HESA in the most effective manner possible.
  • To ensure effective control over the financial affairs of HESA and the donor funds over which it has responsibility.
  • To ensure the effective administration of the human resource function so that the right skills and competencies are available to the organisation to fulfil its mission.
  • To ensure compliance of the organisation with legislative and regulatory requirements.