But such diplomas do not get much respect from employers, said Julius Mandlazi, a 22-year-old student who was among those who lined up to try to apply at the University of Johannesburg.
In some well-to-do regions, almost all kindergarten teachers have such a diploma or degree.
It excludes non-university higher education providers, sub-bachelor courses (such as diplomas) and postgraduate degrees.
With no effective mission group, there are concerns about the quality of provision at some alternative providers, particularly those offering sub-degree courses, such as diplomas.
It also forced graduates to pay back student loans sooner but extended fee help to non-university courses such as diplomas and associate degrees.
"Our contention is that there are other entry vocational qualifications that students bring with them to university that should be recognised in the measure, such as diplomas of higher education," said a spokesperson for the University of North London.
All the furniture, text-books and documents such as diplomas, CVs and archives were burnt.
Higher qualifications such as diplomas and masters degrees are not as important to employers as are actual knowledge, competent performance, and appropriate skills.
The latter is likely to be one of a number that are already recognised as professional qualifications, such as the Diploma in Social Work, and the new degree that should be introduced in two years.
To pursue a long-term career in HR management, it is beneficial to have a CIPD-approved, postgraduate-level qualification such as a diploma or MA/MSc in HR.
