Chair’s Messages
A collection of the Chair’s messages and statements on current affairs, local and international news and hot topics around the country.
Prof Cobus Oosthuizen
Message from the Chairperson of SABSA
It is an honour to step into the role of Chairperson of the South African Business Schools Association (SABSA) at a time of profound transformation in higher education, the global economy, and the world of work.
As technology reshapes industries, and as the nature of leadership and employment evolves, business schools must rise to the challenge—not only by responding to these shifts, but by actively shaping the future. We are called to equip the next generation of business leaders with not just technical knowledge, but with the adaptability, ethical foundation, and critical thinking needed to lead in an increasingly complex world.
SABSA has long served as a beacon of collaboration, advocacy, and excellence within the South African and broader African business education landscape. Now more than ever, we have a responsibility to build on that foundation and ensure that our institutions remain globally competitive, socially relevant, and committed to inclusive progress.
Over the next two years, my leadership will be guided by three core strategic priorities:
1. Strengthening Policy Advocacy
Business schools do not operate in a vacuum. The quality and sustainability of our programmes are directly shaped by education policy, regulatory frameworks, and national priorities. SABSA will deepen its engagement with government, accreditation bodies, and industry to advocate for an enabling environment—one that supports innovation, maintains high standards, and recognises the vital role of business education in economic development.
2. Driving Capacity Building and Institutional Growth
South Africa’s business education landscape is rich with potential but marked by unequal access to resources and opportunities. To close this gap, SABSA will lead structured capacity-building initiatives to support emerging and under-resourced institutions. Through mentorship, shared learning platforms, and targeted support, we aim to ensure that excellence becomes the standard across all member schools—not the exception.
3. Championing Research and Thought Leadership in an AI-Driven World
Artificial intelligence and digital disruption are redefining leadership. SABSA is committed to fostering research, debate, and innovation around the future of management education in this new era. Our graduates must be prepared not only to work with technology but to lead in ways that are ethical, strategic, and socially conscious. We will position SABSA as a hub for thought leadership on these critical themes.
These goals cannot be achieved in isolation. They require collaboration, courage, and a willingness to innovate. My role as Chair is to unite our institutions around this common vision and facilitate collective progress.
As we look to the future, I invite all stakeholders—academics, students, industry partners, and policymakers—to join us in shaping a vibrant, future-ready business education sector. Together, we can build a legacy of excellence and impact that defines South African business education for generations to come.
Warm regards,
Prof. Cobus Oosthuizen
Chairperson, SABSA