Breaking Chains, Forging Links | SAHISA Conference 2025

From 10 – 13 September 2025, the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) had the privilege of participating in the Southern African Heads of Independent Schools Associations (SAHISA) Conference at The President Hotel in Cape Town. This year’s theme, “Breaking Chains, Forging Links”, set the tone for meaningful conversations about the evolving needs of education in South Africa.

During the conference, our CEO, Ms Confidence Dikgole presented feedback to ISASA stakeholders on the state of the IEB. Her presentation highlighted our continued growth, expanding portfolios such as Adult Education and the International Secondary Certificate (ISC) Qualification and our strong stakeholder relationships with the Department of Basic Education, schools, and Qualification Boards. She also spoke to the diversity of our assessment product offerings. Ms Robyn Mowatt, the IEB’s Senior Assessment and Training Specialist brought valuable insight to a panel discussion on accommodations at school level and their implementation. Our Chairperson, Prof Crain Soudien, shared his perspectives as part of a panel on “Paradigm Shifts: Changing Needs for the South African Educational Context.” Delegates were also deeply moved by Prof Murray Leibbrandt’s keynote presentation, which provided a poignant and thought-provoking reflection on the impact of the economy on schooling in South Africa.

The conference provided an inspiring opportunity to connect and reaffirmed our shared commitment to breaking barriers and forging meaningful connections that will shape and strengthen the future of education in South Africa and beyond.