Transformation in higher education in South Africa over the last 20 years has been strongly shaped by post-apartheid pressures. Recent research shows that South Africa's current higher education system can be described as medium knowledge-producing and differentiated, with low participation and high attrition. In the decade following 1994, both policy frameworks and capacity building of the sector received considerable attention. Massification and differentiation are concepts that have been under discussion for some time in South Africa, but have yet to be translated into practical mechanisms for delivery of results. The Centre for Higher Education Transformation initially focused its efforts on stimulating debate on cutting-edge issues in South Africa. More recently, it has shifted its focus to strengthening regional and national development of African universities to enable their more meaningful participation in the global knowledge economy and society.