Enrolments in doctoral degrees in South Africa mirror international trends and there is a strong national policy emphasis on these higher qualifications to fulfil needs, not only of the academy, but also of the economy and broader society. There are significant constraints, however, including the historical legacy of apartheid that has left the South African education system deeply inequitable. There are encouraging signs emerging from a national initiative to further increase doctoral output and also the fact that the PhD, more especially as a professional qualification, is regarded as a key element in nurturing the future development of the nation.