Sphere Holdings is pleased to announce its acquisition of a meaningful minority stake in Richfield Graduate Institute and the AAA School of Advertising. The investment is structured through Growth Ten, the holding company of both institutions.
Richfield is one of South Africa’s leading private higher education institutions, offering qualifications in Information and Communications Technology as well as Business, Economics and Management Sciences. Its students are evenly split between contact and distance learning across eight campuses nationwide. AAA holds the distinction of being the only academic institution in Africa accredited by the International Advertising Association (IAA).
This transaction affirms Sphere’s conviction that education is central to South Africa’s future. Through prior investments such as Maskew Miller Learning (MML), and the personal involvement of its founders and executives in educational initiatives across the country, Sphere has consistently demonstrated its belief that education is not only a platform for growth, but a cornerstone of long-term national development.
Itumeleng Kgaboesele, CEO of Sphere Holdings says: “We are proud to partner with two exceptional private education franchises at this exciting point in their growth journey. Richfield’s focus on quality, affordability, and industry relevance is critical in an era of constrained public sector capacity and rising demand for skills. Equally, AAA’s strong reputation and experience is well known for producing award-winning work and industry ready graduates. Our investment supports the institutions’ existing leadership and operations, while providing a platform to scale their impact across South Africa.”
Richfield and AAA will continue to operate with full academic autonomy and institutional independence, under the leadership and governance structures that have earned them a strong reputation in the sector. The investment reinforces this foundation, providing long-term stability and strategic support that will enable both institutions to scale their impact while staying true to their mission. Students, parents and regulatory stakeholders can expect continuity, strengthened by renewed investment in the future.
Marang Denalane, Sphere Director says: “Private providers like Richfield and AAA are uniquely positioned to add capacity to the country’s educational sector, foster innovation and deliver programmes that are relevant to our country’s needs. This investment allows us to support a proven, respected institution as it continues to deliver accessible, high-quality education.”
Stefan Ferreira, Chief Executive Officer of Growth Ten says: “This investment by Sphere is a vote of confidence in the proposition of our learning institutions. Sphere’s values, track record in education, and their long-term approach make them a natural fit for Richfield and AAA. With their support, we are well positioned to extend our reach, strengthen our offering, and continue preparing our students for the demands of a fast-changing world.”
