Inscape Acquires Villioti Fashion Institute to Expand Creative Education in South Africa

Inscape Acquires Villioti Fashion Institute to Expand Creative Education in South Africa. Inscape Education Group has acquired the Villioti Fashion Institute, a move that expands its presence in South Africa’s creative education sector while strengthening its portfolio of design and fashion programmes.

The acquisition brings together two private institutions focused on creative education and aims to broaden opportunities for students pursuing careers in fashion, design and related industries.

Founded by South African fashion designer Spero Villioti, the Villioti Fashion Institute has established itself as a specialised fashion education institution offering accredited undergraduate programmes and short courses. Its curriculum focuses on fashion design, craftsmanship, industry knowledge and creative development, preparing students for careers in the fashion and design sectors.

Inscape, which describes itself as South Africa’s oldest privately owned multidisciplinary creative institution, said the acquisition aligns with its long-term strategy of expanding access to industry-relevant education while supporting the country’s growing creative economy.

Helen Bührs, Chief Executive Officer of Inscape Education Group, said the acquisition is intended to preserve the legacy of the Villioti Fashion Institute while creating new opportunities for students.

“This acquisition is not simply about growth. It is about stewardship, continuity and possibility,” she said.

Bührs added that combining the strengths of both institutions creates an opportunity to further develop fashion education in South Africa while supporting emerging creative talent.

According to Inscape, the integration will create opportunities for collaboration across several academic disciplines, including fashion, design, entrepreneurship, digital communication and creative business.

The group said it also expects the partnership to encourage greater industry engagement, curriculum development and expanded student support services as the integration progresses.

For existing students, Inscape said academic continuity remains a priority. The institution stated that current programmes will continue while attention is given to maintaining educational quality, student experience and the identity of the Villioti Fashion Institute during the transition.

Bührs acknowledged the contribution made by Spero Villioti and the institute over the years, saying the focus now is to build on that foundation while investing in the future of creative education.

She added that fashion education continues to play an important role in developing entrepreneurs, supporting livelihoods and contributing to South Africa’s broader creative industries.

The acquisition also forms part of Inscape’s broader vision of preparing graduates with both technical and creative skills alongside the adaptability required in a changing employment landscape.

The group said further information regarding the integration process, academic developments and future opportunities for students will be communicated at a later stage.