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The 100 largest Higher Education companies in Africa

Tamtam tracks 388 Higher Education companies headquartered in Africa. This list ranks the 100 largest by number of employees on LinkedIn, led by Cairo University, University of Johannesburg and University of Pretoria. Their median headcount is 1,828. Half of them were founded in 1982 or later. The most common headquarters are Nairobi (8), Cairo (4) and Cape Town (3).

🌍 Africa100 companiesUpdated Nov 13, 2026

This selection of Higher Education companies in Africa comprises large universities and institutions, many with employee counts exceeding 5,000. These organizations are primarily focused on providing a wide range of academic programs, conducting research, and contributing to societal development through education and innovation. Companies such as Cairo University and the University of Johannesburg are represented, alongside others like the University of Pretoria, which offers diverse postgraduate programs, and the University of Cape Town, known for its research and academic excellence.

A notable pattern among these institutions is the high concentration of headquarters in South Africa, particularly in cities like Pretoria, Johannesburg, and Cape Town. Universities in Egypt and Ghana are also present, but South Africa hosts a significant portion of the largest higher education providers on this list.

#CompanyIndustryHeadquarters EmployeesFounded
1
Cairo Universitycu.edu.eg

An educational institution in Giza, Egypt, focuses on preparing students for the modern workplace through interactive learning and technology

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Giza 17,695 1908
2
University of Johannesburguj.ac.za

Offers vocational and academic programs, advancing freedom, democracy, equality, and human dignity through scholarship, teaching, research, innovation, and intellectual capital.

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Johannesburg 13,544 2005
3
University of Pretoriaup.ac.za

Multi-faculty university offering diverse postgraduate programs, producing top graduates, focusing on research, equity, and African development.

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Pretoria 12,260 1908
4
University of Cape Townuct.ac.za

Leading African university focused on research, academic excellence, social justice, producing globally recognized graduates, and promoting diversity and transformation.

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Cape Town 11,751 1829
5
University of South Africa/Universiteit van Suid-Afrikaunisa.ac.za

A comprehensive institution offering open learning and distance education, producing graduates who succeed with diligence, determination, and commitment, making contributions to society

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Pretoria 11,711 1873
6
University of KwaZulu-Natalukzn.ac.za

University offering diverse undergraduate and postgraduate programs across multiple campuses, emphasizing innovative teaching, research, and professional degrees.

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Durban 10,139 n/a
7
University of the Free Stateufs.ac.za

Established in 1904, this institution of higher education in South Africa offers a wide range of academic programs to over 34,000 students

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Bloemfontein 9,368 1904
8
Zagazig Universityzu.edu.eg

Zagazig University is an Egyptian educational institution offering a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines to contribute to the country's development and progress

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Az Zagazig 9,179 1974
9
University of Ghanaug.edu.gh

The company focuses on developing human resources and capabilities through quality education, research, and knowledge dissemination to address national and global challenges

Higher Education 🇬🇭 Accra 8,373 1948
10
Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transportaast.edu

This organization offers education, training, scientific research, and community service to students from Arab and African countries since 1972.

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Alexandria 8,228 1972
11
University of Nairobiuonbi.ac.ke

Leading university in Kenya and East/Central Africa in teaching, research, and innovation Recognized for informing policy and driving research advancements

Higher Education 🇰🇪 Nairobi 7,088 1970
12
Tshwane University of Technologytut.ac.za

A leading institution offering quality education with an entrepreneurial focus, fostering innovation and creative thinking to create job creators and entrepreneurs

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Pretoria 6,643 n/a
13
University of the Western Capeuwc.ac.za

A national university dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and nurturing South Africa's cultural diversity while addressing societal needs creatively and critically

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Cape Town 6,000 1960
14
Cape Peninsula University of Technologycput.ac.za

A leading institution in Africa offering a wide range of accredited undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various fields of study

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Cape Town 5,763 2005
15
University of Cape Coastucc.edu.gh

An equal opportunity university providing quality education through liberal and professional programmes, distance learning, and modern technologies to train professionals

Higher Education 🇬🇭 Cape Coast 5,734 1962
16
Kenyatta Universityku.ac.ke

A dynamic institution committed to accessible education, research, and community engagement, offering high-quality programs and nurturing innovative projects

Higher Education 🇰🇪 Nairobi 5,684 n/a
17
The American University in Cairoaucegypt.edu

Premier English-language university in the Arab world, contributing significantly to social, political, and cultural development since 1919.

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Cairo 5,535 1919
18
University of Lagosunilag.edu.ng

A prestigious institution providing quality education and research opportunities for over 5 decades, aiming to develop a professional workforce for national development

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Lagos 5,293 1962
19
Assiut Universityb.aun.edu.eg

Established in 1957, this university in Upper Egypt prepares highly qualified graduates with specialized academic knowledge and training expertise in various skills

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Asyut 5,090 1957
20
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT)jkuat.ac.ke

Driving advancements in higher education, research, and innovation across Africa for the past 20 years

Higher Education 🇰🇪 Nairobi 4,457 1981
21
Jimma Universityju.edu.et

Higher education institution combining health science and agriculture, focused on national development and expanding educational programs across Ethiopia.

Higher Education 🇪🇹 Jimma 4,296 1952
22
Durban University of Technologydut.ac.za

A leading university of technology in KwaZulu-Natal with a focus on high-quality education, research, innovation, and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among its members

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Durban 4,250 n/a
23
Suez Canal Universitysuez.edu.eg

Egyptian governmental university providing educational services, vocational training, and scientific research through specialized faculties and research centers to serve the Ismailia region.

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Ismailia 4,162 n/a
24
University of Calabarunical.edu.ng

An institution of higher education established in Nigeria in the 1970s, located in Calabar Municipal with a focus on academic and professional development

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Calabar 4,132 1975
25
University of Ilorin, Nigeriaunilorin.edu.ng

Public university offering diverse academic programs, established by federal government decree, located in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria.

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Ilorin 3,652 1975
26
University of Gondaruog.edu.et

A prestigious higher education institution in Ethiopia, dedicated to teaching, learning, research, and community engagement to develop future leaders for positive impact

Higher Education 🇪🇹 Gondar 3,597 1954
27
Sohag Universitysohag-univ.edu.eg

A university in Egypt founded in 2006, offering various faculties such as law, medicine, engineering, and commerce, managed by a faculty graduate

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Sohag 3,532 2006
28
Moi Universitymu.ac.ke

A public university based in Kenya, offering a variety of academic programs and research opportunities to students in the region

Higher Education 🇰🇪 Eldoret 3,381 1984
29
Benha Universitybu.edu.eg

Striving to make Benha University a leading educational institution in Egypt through innovative research, educational services, and community development initiatives

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Benha 3,123 2005
30
The British University in Egyptbue.edu.eg

The company offers quality UK-standard education in Egypt, focusing on research, academics, and preparing students for the job market

Higher Education 🇪🇬 El Sherouk City 3,036 2005
31
UM6P - University Mohammed VI Polytechnicum6p.ma

Hub of education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship fostering leadership and training through global partnerships and practical learning approaches.

Higher Education 🇲🇦 Benguerir 3,028 2017
32
University of Fort Hareufh.ac.za

An academic institution offering various degree programs with campuses in Eastern Cape, known for educating influential figures in Africa

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Alice 2,993 1916
33
Rhodes Universityru.ac.za

A prestigious South African university known for academic excellence, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs with a focus on research and student success

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Grahamstown 2,949 1904
34
Fayoum Universityfayoum.edu.eg

A public university in Al Fayyum, Egypt, offering a wide range of faculties, including Education, Agriculture, Engineering, Medicine, and more

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Fayoum 2,802 n/a
35
Al-Azhar Universityazhar.eg

Public university in Cairo, Egypt, known for Islamic and Arabic learning Oldest degree-granting university, influential in Egyptian society and Sunni Muslim world

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Qaitbay 2,581 n/a
36
The German University in Cairoguc.edu.eg

A private university established in Egypt in partnership with German institutions, supported by various government bodies and organizations

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Cairo 2,515 2003
37
Federal University of Technology Akurefuta.edu.ng

A leading public institution in Nigeria offering a wide range of technology-focused programs, dedicated to excellence in research, teaching, and service delivery

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Akure 2,497 1981
38
Eduvoslinktr.ee

A leading higher education institution in South Africa offering internationally recognized qualifications through flexible learning options across various faculties

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Johannesburg 2,413 1979
39
Mansoura Universityedu.eg

A prominent university in Egypt's Nile Delta region, contributing significantly to cultural and scientific advancements in Mansoura and throughout the country

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Mansoura 2,375 n/a
40
Université Badji Mokhtar de Annabauniv-annaba.dz

One of the largest universities in Algeria, providing education and research opportunities with a focus on societal impact and sustainable development

Higher Education 🇩🇿 Annaba 2,321 1975
41
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Universityac.za

African university offering quality education to contribute to sustainability, guided by values of diversity, excellence, integrity, and environmental responsibility

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Port Elizabeth 2,140 n/a
42
University of Vendauniven.ac.za

A university in Limpopo Province providing quality education to students from diverse backgrounds, contributing to national development and human resources needs

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Thohoyandou 2,079 1982
43
Central University of Technology, Free Statecut.ac.za

Dedicated to quality education and training in science, engineering, and technology, developing into a leading institution nationally and internationally with academic excellence.

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Bloemfontein 2,000 1981
44
University for Development Studiesuds.edu.gh

An institution focused on integrating academia and community to address environmental and socio-economic challenges in Northern Ghana and rural areas nationwide

Higher Education 🇬🇭 Tamale 1,995 1992
45
Mohammed V University in Rabatum5.ac.ma

An educational institution located in Rabat, offering a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities to students

Higher Education 🇲🇦 Rabat 1,960 1957
46
University of Maiduguriunimaid.edu.ng

Higher education institution offering tertiary level programs for students seeking specialized education and career advancement opportunities in various fields

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Maiduguri 1,959 1975
47
Aswan Universityaswu.edu.eg

A comprehensive university in Aswan, Egypt, preparing students for a dynamic workforce through interactive learning and new technologies on a larger scale

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Aswan 1,924 n/a
48
University of Education, Winnebauew.edu.gh

The institution offers a variety of education programs across multiple campuses, focusing on teacher training and specialized education in Ghana

Higher Education 🇬🇭 Winneba 1,897 1992
49
Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)dhet.gov.za

An organization focused on leading post-school education and training in South Africa through strategic leadership, accountability, and continuous learning

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Tshwane 1,877 2009
50
University of Bueaubuea.cm

Leading Anglophone state university in Cameroon, providing quality education through teaching and research in a market-responsive environment to over 20,000 students

Higher Education 🇨🇲 Buea 1,828 n/a

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51
Strathmore Universitystrathmore.edu

A chartered university in Nairobi, Kenya, offering multiracial and multi-religious education, ISO certified, focusing on quality education, research, ethics, and social development

Higher Education 🇰🇪 Nairobi 1,825 1961
52
Wollo Universitywu.edu.et

Aiming to become a leading university focusing on quality education, research, technology transfer, and community development services in Ethiopia

Higher Education 🇪🇹 Dessie 1,736 2004
53
Rivers State Universityrsu.edu.ng

An educational institution offering a range of programs in science, technology, education, law, management, agriculture, and environmental sciences with a focus on excellence and creativity

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Port Harcourt 1,664 1972
54
Université de Doualauniv-douala.com

An educational institution offering knowledge transmission, research development, and higher education access while promoting social and cultural development and bilingualism

Higher Education 🇨🇲 Douala 1,535 1992
55
Nile Universitynu.edu.eg

Research institution focused on technology and business education, offering diplomas, masters, PhDs, undergraduate, and executive programs in collaboration with global partners.

Higher Education 🇪🇬 6 October 1,532 2006
56
Damanhour Universitydmu.edu.eg

A higher education institution in Egypt offering various academic programs and opportunities for students

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Damanhour 1,512 n/a
57
Dilla Universitydu.edu.et

Dilla University offers a wide range of undergraduate, post-graduate, and PhD programs with multiple campuses and a large student population

Higher Education 🇪🇹 Dila 1,494 1996
58
Covenant Universitycovenantuniversity.edu.ng

A growing university with a Christian mission, focusing on holistic development and excellence in education to raise leaders for Africa

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Ota 1,460 2002
59
Université Mouloud Mammeri Tizi-Ouzouummto.dz

A higher education institution located in Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria, providing academic programs and research opportunities for students in various fields

Higher Education 🇩🇿 Tizi Ouzou 1,454 1977
60
Michael Okpara'​ University of Agriculture Umudikemouau.edu.ng

Leading institution producing top graduates in agriculture, science, and technology Offering practical training for professional competency and self-employment Emphasizing educational excellence and sustainable food production

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Umudike 1,442 1992
61
Port Said Universitypsu.edu.eg

A university in Port Said, Egypt, offering a variety of faculties including engineering, medicine, pharmacy, science, commerce, education, and more

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Port Said 1,402 2010
62
Mangosuthu University of Technologymut.ac.za

A higher educational institution in South Africa, MUT offers technology-focused education, empowers students through work-integrated learning, and revitalizes the Umlazi Township community

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Durban 1,399 n/a
63
Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC)kmtc.ac.ke

A leading medical training college in Kenya offering a wide range of health-related courses and contributing significantly to the healthcare workforce

Higher Education 🇰🇪 Nairobi 1,368 1927
64
wolaita sodo universitywsu.edu.et

Aiming to become a top-ranking university in East Africa by 2020, providing competent graduates, research solutions, technological advancements, and community services

Higher Education 🇪🇹 Sodo 1,360 2007
65
Adama Science and Technology Universityastu.edu.et

This company is focused on innovating knowledge and advancing in the field of education or information dissemination

Higher Education 🇪🇹 Adama 1,351 n/a
66
Delta University for Science and Technologydeltauniv.edu.eg

A private university in the Egyptian Delta, offering a range of faculties and operating at high national and international standards

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Mansoura 1,334 2007
67
University of Mauritiusuom.ac.mu

Public university offering diverse undergraduate and postgraduate programs, focusing on research, consultancy, and innovative learning technologies for Mauritius economy.

Higher Education 🇲🇺 Reduit 1,321 1965
68
GOMYCODEgomycode.com

The company democratizes education by offering quality, localized, and affordable digital skill trainings in 45 cities, aiming to improve lives

Higher Education 🇹🇳 Africa 🌍 - 📍 Tunisia🇹🇳 1,302 2018
69
Université des Sciences et de la Technologie 'Houari Boumediène'usthb.dz

A university in Algeria with a large community of students and faculty, focusing on graduate and post-graduate education as well as research

Higher Education 🇩🇿 Algiers 1,299 1974
70
ESPRITesprit.tn

Educating operational engineers in ICT, civil engineering, and electromechanical engineering, providing tailored training for businesses, and offering business education programs.

Higher Education 🇹🇳 Tunis 1,285 2003
71
The Technical University of Kenyatukenya.ac.ke

A leading technical university in Kenya, offering diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate degrees to students in a variety of fields

Higher Education 🇰🇪 Nairobi 1,279 1961
72
Egerton Universityegerton.ac.ke

A educational institution providing academic programs and resources for students to further their learning and knowledge in various fields

Higher Education 🇰🇪 Nakuru 1,278 1939
73
Babcock Universitybabcock.edu.ng

A non-profit higher-education institution in Nigeria offering bachelor and master degrees with a Christian-Adventist affiliation, selective admissions, and various facilities

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Remo 1,258 1999
74
Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria.eksu.edu.ng

An educational institution established by a legislative bill in 1982, providing academic programs and research opportunities for students

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Ado Ekiti 1,243 1982
75
Al Akhawayn Universityaui.ma

A university in Morocco offering an American liberal arts education with an international common core program, rich academics in English, and a vibrant campus life

Higher Education 🇲🇦 Ifrane 1,240 1993
76
Zewail City of Science and Technologyzewailcity.edu.eg

A science and technology organization focused on education, research, and innovation to elevate local technologies and increase national productivity

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Giza 1,197 2000
77
Federal College of Education (Technical) Umunzefcetumunze.edu.ng

The College was founded to provide skilled and innovative manpower resources in alignment with the national education policy

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Umunze 1,195 1989
78
United States International University - Africalinktr.ee

A leading secular private university in East & Central Africa offering accredited US and Kenya degree programs to a diverse student body from 74 nations

Higher Education 🇰🇪 Nairobi 1,189 1969
79
Dire Dawa Universityddu.edu.et

Dire Dawa University is a higher education institution in Ethiopia, offering a variety of academic programs to produce competent human resources and research outputs

Higher Education 🇪🇹 Dire Dawa 1,181 2007
80
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences Universitysmu.ac.za

Established as a health sciences university by the South African government, following the separation from the University of Limpopo based on recommendations

Higher Education 🇿🇦 Ga-Rankuwa 1,177 n/a
81
University of Eldoretuoeld.ac.ke

A science, agriculture, and technology university with over 14,000 students, 1,300 staff offering various programs and operating nursery to secondary schools on a 1,054-acre campus

Higher Education 🇰🇪 Elodret 1,173 2010
82
Hawassa Universityhu.edu.et

A comprehensive university offering diverse undergraduate, masters, and PhD programs, known for quality education, research, and community services in Ethiopia

Higher Education 🇪🇹 Hawassa 1,154 2000
83
Université Hassan IIuh2c.ma

The company is a university in Morocco with 1153 teachers, a large library, offering courses in law, economics, and social sciences in Arabic and French

Higher Education 🇲🇦 Casablanca 1,150 n/a
84
MANCOSAmancosa.co.za

A private tertiary institute offering affordable, accredited management programs in Africa and globally, as part of a larger education network

Higher Education 🇿🇦 South Africa 1,144 1995
85
University Of Bamendauniba.cm

A prestigious anglo-saxon university known for high standards, innovation, and equipping students with knowledge and skills for the future

Higher Education 🇨🇲 Bambili 1,143 2010
86
Ecole Marocaine des Sciences de l'ingénieuremsi.ma

The company is a Moroccan engineering school focused on providing high-quality education, strong employability, research, innovation, and international openness in various engineering fields

Higher Education 🇲🇦 Casablanca 1,125 1986
87
Accra Technical Universityatu.edu.gh

The company provides higher education in engineering, science, and technology-based disciplines, as well as technical and vocational training with industry collaborations

Higher Education 🇬🇭 Accra 1,122 1943
88
University of Energy and Natural Resourcesuenr.edu.gh

A public university in Ghana focusing on developing human resources and skills to tackle energy and natural resources challenges through research and outreach programs

Higher Education 🇬🇭 Sunyani 1,096 2011
89
Universidade Agostinho Netouan.ao

A public institution in Angola offering higher education, providing autonomy in academic, administrative, and financial matters to train skilled professionals in various fields

Higher Education 🇦🇴 Luanda 1,092 n/a
90
American University of Nigeriaaun.edu.ng

Provide accredited American-style education in Nigeria, focusing on leadership, development solutions, and community impact through diverse academic programs.

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Yola 1,090 2003
91
University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwaumat.edu.gh

The University of Mines and Technology provides higher education in mining, petroleum, technology, and related disciplines, promoting knowledge, excellence, and professional services

Higher Education 🇬🇭 Tarkwa 1,089 1952
92
The Egyptian Russian University - ERUeru.edu.eg

Specializing in recruitment services for the Egyptian Russian University, providing official job announcements and opportunities for potential candidates

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Cairo 1,085 2006
93
Afe Babalola Universityabuad.edu.ng

A Federal Government Licensed Private University in Nigeria with state-of-the-art facilities, offering quality education and emphasizing discipline, service, and integrity

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Ado Ekiti 1,058 2009
94
KCA Universitykcau.ac.ke

A premier business and technology university in Nairobi, Kenya, specializing in accounting education and promoting knowledge advancement and change

Higher Education 🇰🇪 Nairobi 1,039 1989
95
Ahram Canadian University - ACUacu.edu.eg

The company is a private university in Egypt owned by Al-Ahram Establishment, with a Board of Trustees overseeing its management and affairs

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Cairo 1,030 2005
96
Benue State Universitybsum.edu.ng

A leading educational institution in Nigeria, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties with a focus on health sciences and law

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Makurdi 1,004 1992
97
Université de Mostaganemuniv-mosta.dz

An educational institution located in Algeria, offering a range of academic programs to over 28,000 students with a faculty of 830 members

Higher Education 🇩🇿 Mostaganem 1,002 1978
98
Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Nigeriababcock.edu.ng

A private Christian university in Nigeria offering a wide range of academic programs, including medicine, management, law, and nursing

Higher Education 🇳🇬 Ilishan-Remo 1,002 1999
99
Cairo University (جامعة القاهرة)cu.edu.eg

A historical institution of higher education in Egypt, offering a range of academic programs and serving as a major university in the country

Higher Education 🇪🇬 Giza 988 n/a
100
Aksum University

A teaching university in Aksum, Ethiopia offering undergraduate and master's degrees through teaching programs, research projects, and community service

Higher Education 🇪🇹 Axum 985 n/a

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How this list is built

Every company on this list has a Tamtam company profile. The industry is the one the company gives on LinkedIn; categories such as SaaS or fintech are classified by Tamtam's AI from the company's website and LinkedIn page; and the headquarters city must match the company's own address. Companies are ranked by the number of employees on LinkedIn, and the list is refreshed every night. Classifications can be wrong, so treat the list as a starting point rather than an official ranking. Last updated Nov 13, 2026.

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