Unisa is steadily increasing its footprint in West Africa, with student numbers in the region contributing to improved international enrolments and supporting a projected 3% growth in student numbers by the end of 2027. The majority of these students are enrolled in doctoral programmes.

To address the needs of current students and support the recruitment of new postgraduate students for 2026, a Unisa marketing team hosted information sessions in Accra, Ghana, on 26 and 27 June 2026. The team comprised staff from the Directorate of Institutional Advancement (DIA) and the College of Graduate Studies (CGS). 

This initiative follows an identified need and a successful recruitment drive in Ghana in 2026 and responds to a growing demand for postgraduate students. "Maintaining a strong presence among Unisa students across Africa is essential for strengthening relationships in these countries and supporting sustained enrolment growth. This is particularly important for postgraduate studies, where several countries continue to demonstrate strong growth in student numbers," said Dr Makabongwe Khanyile, Deputy Director: Marketing at DIA.

More than 60 prospective master’s and doctoral students attended the information sessions. In addition, 427 Ghanaian students are registered for master’s or doctoral studies at Unisa for the 2026 academic year.

The strong interest from postgraduate students in Ghana highlights the country as an important strategic market for Unisa. Ghana’s growing economy, combined with the advantage of English as the official language in a region largely dominated by French-speaking countries, further strengthens its relevance within the University’s 2026-2030 strategic plan to expand its international footprint across Africa.

Fresh from graduating with a PhD in Development Studies on 11 June 2026, Dr Dzinedzormi Dzakuma visited the Unisa Open Day to inspire and encourage prospective postgraduate students by sharing her academic journey. Reflecting on her experience, Dr Dzakuma said: "My time at Unisa was truly fulfilling. My studies progressed well, culminating in my PhD graduation on 11 June 2026. Throughout my journey, I received unwavering support from the University staff, for which I am deeply grateful. Long live Unisa!"

The event was promoted through popular radio stations and SMS communications to current students. Many visitors also reported hearing about the sessions through word of mouth, with family and friends encouraging them to explore opportunities at Unisa based on their positive personal experiences.

During the sessions, the team assisted attendees with enquiries related to postgraduate study opportunities, funding, registration, myLife e-mail accounts and academic support. Participants were also assisted in joining the active WhatsApp group for registered postgraduate students in the region.

Unisa has 239 alumni in Ghana.

* By Hanli Wolhuter, Communication and Marketing Specialist, College of Graduate Studies