The democratization of South Africa has necessitated a transformation of the education system. The current transformational landscape of higher education in South Africa requires that basic curriculum concepts, and principles be rediscovered and, rethought with a view to ensuring that future educational practice is based on sound, and proven curriculum thinking. Basic curriculum principles are reconsidered in the light of emerging educational needs. The concepts which receive particular attention are "constructive" curriculum alignment, globalization, and quality assurance. The criteria for programme development, implementation, and review should motivate, embrace, and reward a spirit of individual creative thinking, and innovation in students in the higher education sector.