UNISA Tenders 2025 – Complete Guide to Opportunities and Application Requirements. The University of South Africa (UNISA) stands as a beacon of accessible higher education, not just academically but also as a gateway for businesses to partner with one of the largest open distance learning institutions in Africa. Every year, UNISA publishes a range of tender opportunities, inviting qualified suppliers, service providers, and contractors to contribute to the institution’s operations.
If you’re a South African business or entrepreneur looking to collaborate with UNISA through its tender system, this article will guide you through everything you need to know about UNISA Tenders, from the current tender notices to the documentation required and key deadlines.
What Are UNISA Tenders?
UNISA Tenders are official procurement requests released by the University of South Africa. These tenders serve as an open invitation for vendors to submit bids to provide goods or services. This is part of UNISA’s commitment to transparency, transformation, and sustainable development through enterprise engagement.
Current UNISA Tender Opportunity
Below is an active tender notice from UNISA for 2025:
| Title | Closing Date | Tender Reference Number |
|---|---|---|
| Expression of Interest to be an approved service provider on the UNISA Database | 03 June 2025 | EOI2025/01 |
This tender provides an opportunity for businesses to be added to UNISA’s official supplier database, thereby opening doors for future projects and contracts within the institution.
Compulsory Documentation for UNISA Tenders
To successfully submit a bid or register for a tender, applicants must prepare and submit the following mandatory documents:
- Supplier List Application (F25): This form must be completed in full and accurately to ensure your business is properly listed in the supplier registry.
- Personal Service Provider Questionnaire: This document helps UNISA assess whether a service provider qualifies as an independent contractor or an employee-equivalent under SARS guidelines.
- Resolution to Sign: If your business is a juristic person (e.g. a company), a signed resolution from your board or management is required authorising a representative to sign tender documents.
- UNISA General Terms and Conditions of Tender (PDF): A binding set of conditions outlining the legal framework for all submitted tenders.
- UNISA Purchase Order Terms and Conditions (PDF): This governs the execution of services or supply of goods once a Purchase Order is issued.
These documents are not optional. Failing to submit any of them could disqualify your bid or application.
Enterprise and Supplier Development Programme
UNISA is fully aligned with South Africa’s transformation goals and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE). Through its Enterprise and Supplier Development Programme, UNISA actively seeks to empower and support previously disadvantaged groups, especially small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs), black-owned businesses, women-owned enterprises, and youth-led entities.
This initiative enhances the inclusivity of the tendering process and builds long-term relationships with emerging suppliers.
Important Tender Participation Guidelines
To ensure fairness and adherence to procurement regulations, UNISA enforces strict guidelines for tender participants:
- Registration Fee Requirement: All service providers are required to pay a non-refundable registration fee. This fee must be paid at the time of registration and can only be processed using credit or debit cards. Cash or EFT payments will not be accepted.
- Access to Information Sessions: Only service providers who have paid the registration fee will be granted access to the mandatory tender information session. These sessions are essential for understanding project scope, requirements, and compliance.
- Strict Timeframes: The time slots provided in each tender advertisement are final. No late entries will be accommodated, and latecomers will be denied access to the registration and information session. It is advised to arrive well ahead of the stated time.
How to Apply for UNISA Tenders
Follow these steps to submit your tender application correctly:
- Download Tender Documents: Visit UNISA’s official tenders page and download all relevant documents, including the application form, questionnaire, and terms.
- Complete All Forms: Fill out all the compulsory forms with accurate, up-to-date information.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Include a valid B-BBEE certificate, tax clearance certificate, CIPC registration, and any other documents requested in the tender brief.
- Make Payment: Pay the registration fee using a valid debit or credit card.
- Attend the Compulsory Briefing: This step is non-negotiable. Attendance confirms your eligibility to submit a full tender bid.
- Submit Your Tender Before the Deadline: Ensure your application is submitted before the stated closing date—in this case, 03 June 2025 for the current open tender.
Why Apply for UNISA Tenders?
There are several benefits to becoming a UNISA-approved supplier:
- Long-Term Business Opportunities with one of the largest institutions in Africa.
- Brand Credibility through association with a reputable educational institution.
- Empowerment and Growth, especially for black-owned and emerging enterprises.
- Capacity Building through UNISA’s Enterprise and Supplier Development initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where can I find UNISA tender notices?
All tender notices are available on the official UNISA website under the “Tenders” section.
2. Is B-BBEE certification required to apply?
Yes, while not mandatory for all tenders, having a B-BBEE certificate significantly improves your chances, especially for SMMEs and HDIs.
3. What happens if I miss the compulsory information session?
If you fail to attend the session or arrive late, you will not be allowed to participate in that specific tender process.
4. Can I pay the registration fee in cash or EFT?
No. Only credit or debit card payments are accepted during registration.
5. How often does UNISA publish new tenders?
Tenders are released periodically based on internal project and procurement schedules. Check the website regularly for updates.
Conclusion
Applying for UNISA tenders is a worthwhile step for businesses aiming to work with a leading South African university. With strict adherence to procurement compliance, a focus on supplier development, and clear instructions for participation, the UNISA tender process is transparent and rewarding for serious service providers.
