South Africa’s higher education sector is about to get a massive injection of private capital. Advtech, the JSE-listed giant behind powerhouse brands like Crawford and Trinityhouse, has officially secured 10 hectares of land in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, for its latest ambitious project: a Higher Education Mega-Campus.
Following the successful launch of mega-campuses in Sandton and Nelson Mandela Bay earlier this February 2026, this move cements Advtech’s position as a dominant force in the “New University” era of South Africa.
Scaling the Future: The Timeline
The development, acquired from the Fundamentum Property Group (the minds behind the Westown Development), is set to roll out in two major phases:
- Phase 1 (Opening 2029): Construction begins in 2027. The initial build will cater to 8,000 students and include a purpose-built 500-bed residence.
- Phase 2 (Completion 2035): Capacity will expand to 10,500 students, with an additional 500 beds added to the student housing portfolio.
The “University” Rebrand
For decades, the title of “University” was a protected term reserved for state-owned institutions. However, with new regulatory doors swinging open, Advtech’s Emeris brand is standing first in line.
“We support a clear and transparent process for awarding university status. As soon as the framework allows, Emeris will apply.” — Geoff Whyte, Advtech Group CEO.
Tackling the Skills Gap
With youth unemployment remaining a critical challenge in South Africa, this investment isn’t just about brick and mortar. Advtech’s strategy focuses on workplace readiness, ensuring that the 10,000+ students on this campus are equipped for a fast-changing global economy.
By integrating high-end student living with state-of-the-art learning facilities, the Durban mega-campus is set to become a blueprint for private tertiary education in Africa.
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