Dear Staff and Students

This year was indeed another great year for CUT. In this communiqué, I would like to focus on three aspects only, and will elaborate on all other aspects in my year-end communiqué.

As mentioned before, we now have effective and efficient procedures and systems in place to ensure smooth operations in terms of NSFAS-supported students and other donors. From the beginning of the year until 30 September 2019, allowances for 12 762 students were paid, at a total amount of R434,317 million. In addition, the 2019 CUT Bursaries Fund of R25,454 million was also used to further support our students. I am grateful to the staff members in the Finance Section, the Management Team and the Students’ Representative Councils (SRCs) at both campuses for their ongoing dedication to this matter.

The 2019/2020 SRC elections at both campuses were concluded smoothly and in a professional manner. I would like to congratulate all our students who exercised their democratic right, and extend a sincere word of appreciation to the Registrar and her team in Student Services for the effective and efficient manner in which they oversaw the election. Congratulations to the newly elected SRCs at both the Welkom and Bloemfontein campuses. I wish you well in your important leadership position of representing all CUT students. Please allow me to also extend my sincere appreciation to the outgoing SRC of 2018/2019 for their leadership, commitment and hard work during their term of office. Your special contributions to enhance CUT are commendable.

The November main assessments will commence on Monday, 28 October 2019. On behalf of Management and staff members, I would like to wish our students all of the best for the upcoming assessments. Please ensure that you are well prepared, as this will open doors for you to realise your dreams. I would like to encourage our students to make use of the academic support opportunities available, and to seek professional support on study methods, time management, examination anxiety, etc. by visiting the Wellness Centre or Student Academic Support Centre on your campus. We care about you as members of the CUT family, and we want you to be successful in your studies.

Management would also like to wish our committed and dedicated academic and support staff well during the assessment period. Your duties of invigilation, marking, moderation, processing of marks, and the general management of the assessment process, are important to ensure that the academic integrity of the university is upheld. Be assured that your hard work is valued and appreciated.

Best wishes / Katleho le Mahlohonolo / Beste wense

Prof. Henk de Jager

Vice-Chancellor and Principal

Download the VC communique, 25 October 2019 (PDF)