In a world of rankings, metrics, and institutional prestige, few markers of excellence are more respected or more quietly transformative than international accreditation.
Stellenbosch Business School’s recent reaffirmation of its European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS) accreditation is more than a feather in the cap. It is a story of resilience, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of relevance in a global business education landscape. “Accreditation is not a badge – it’s a beacon,” says Yolanda van der Westhuizen, Accreditation Manager at the School. “It signals to the world that our academic programmes, our research, our students, and our partnerships are held to the highest international standards.”
In March 2025, the School was once again awarded full EQUIS accreditation by the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD), a distinction it has held since 2000. EQUIS, along with the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and the Association of MBAs (AMBA), forms the triple crown of business school accreditations, achieved by fewer than 125 business schools worldwide, placing Stellenbosch Business School among an elite group globally. Stellenbosch Business School was the first in Africa to receive both EQUIS and AMBA recognition, and the first on the continent to gain AACSB accreditation in 2012.
A key part of what distinguishes Stellenbosch Business School – and what underpins the reaccreditation – is its close engagement with business and industry. Executive Development, as a core part of the School, plays a central role in shaping leadership and management practice in South Africa and beyond. Through its custom and open programmes, applied research and leadership interventions, the School translates academic excellence into workplace impact. The seamless connection between degree programmes, executive education, and working with the private and public sectors strengthens the relevance and impact of the School in real-world contexts.
“This re-accreditation is a powerful affirmation of our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement,” says Professor Chris van der Hoven, Senior Director of Stellenbosch Business School. “It ensures we remain relevant in a rapidly changing and competitive global landscape by holding ourselves to standards that demand innovation, agility and societal impact.”
Far from being a bureaucratic exercise, reaccreditation is a reflective and rigorous journey. “It requires deep introspection, honest self-assessment, and an unwavering commitment to continuous improvement,” van der Westhuizen explains. The EQUIS process involves an institutional self-study, a detailed report, and an intense, on-site peer review including interviews with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and corporate partners.
According to Prof van der Hoven, what sets Stellenbosch Business School apart in sustaining its triple-crown status, is a blend of forward-thinking strategy, globally oriented yet locally relevant programmes, and a deeply embedded culture of responsible leadership. “Centres such as the Centre for Responsible Leadership Studies and our work in business ethics, sustainability and public policy show how our scholarship speaks to Africa’s needs while engaging global debates.”
“It’s a moment to ask: Are we relevant? Are we future-fit? Are we living our values in a meaningful way?” van der Westhuizen adds. These questions become even more urgent in a post-pandemic world where agility, accountability and responsible leadership are not optional – they are essential. The outcome was a resounding yes from EQUIS and a renewed sense of purpose from within.
Prof van der Hoven emphasises that the achievement was brought about by a collective effort: “This reaccreditation is not the result of a single innovation or department – it is the culmination of shared vision and hard work. What’s exceptional about our School is not only our academic calibre but our people – their passion, expertise and commitment to impact.”
What does this mean for stakeholders?
- For the School’s reputation: The EQUIS stamp positions Stellenbosch Business School among a rare cohort of globally benchmarked institutions, reinforcing its brand as Africa’s leading business school.
- For students: Students are guaranteed qualifications that meet international standards, and graduates earn a competitive edge globally, which means they get access to exchange programmes and dual-degree partnerships.
- For partnerships: Partnerships with Stellenbosch Business School signal trustworthiness to international collaborators, enabling stronger alliances with peer institutions, research networks and business schools worldwide.
- For corporate clients: Accreditation assures clients the quality and relevance of executive education and advisory services. “They know our teaching is not just academic – it’s actionable,” adds van der Hoven.
- For society: The reaccreditation affirms the School’s role in developing responsible leaders who can tackle complex societal challenges across Africa and beyond.
This research and reflection process positions Stellenbosch Business School as a thought leader in applying global best practice to local imperatives. While institutional status is important, the School believes true impact comes through systemic influence, shared purpose, and shaping a better future for everyone.
