It is a bitter-sweet moment as we announce the resignation of the Central University of Technology, Free State’s (CUT) Welkom Campus Principal, Dr Joe Molete, effective from 31 December 2025. Dr Molete will be joining the North West University (NWU) as the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Student Life, Transformation, People and Culture, designated at the Mahikeng Campus.

Since joining CUT on 1 June 2024, Dr Molete has made a meaningful and lasting contribution to the growth and regeneration of the Welkom Campus. His leadership has strengthened the academic and operational environment, enhanced community engagement in the Lejweleputswa region, and advanced CUT’s mission of providing quality, technology-driven education.

It is a huge loss for us as CUT and especially for the Welkom Campus. Dr Joe Molete, together with the Welkom Campus Management Committee, has developed a culture of responsiveness and uniting the campus community. He has been leading the repositioning of the campus and bringing to life the “one university, two campuses” mission to ensure that there is equitable focus and attention to both. He has made a huge contribution, especially strengthening partnerships with the Lejweleputswa Municipal District, schools, businesses, and the broader community.

Reflecting on his journey, Dr Molete described this transition as an important step in his leadership journey, aligned with his long-term aspirations. While we are naturally saddened to see him go, we celebrate his achievement and recognition at a national level and wish him every success in his new role.

He has committed to working closely with the university’s leadership to ensure a smooth transition and an orderly handover of responsibilities in the coming months. Further communication regarding interim leadership arrangements and the transition plan will follow in due course.

On behalf of the Central University of Technology, Free State, we extend our sincere thanks to Dr Molete for his contribution and leadership. We look forward to continued collaboration in the higher education sector and wish him the very best in this exciting new chapter.

Issued by:
Office of the Vice-Chancellor
Central University of Technology, Free State