Driving institutional growth through Mega Projects

Mega projects on university campuses are more than just large-scale construction initiatives, they are transformative investments in the institution’s future. These projects, whether new academic buildings, research facilities, student residences, or multipurpose centres, enhance the university’s ability to attract top talent, expand research capabilities, and improve the student experience. 

By integrating state-of-the-art infrastructure with sustainability and innovation, universities can foster an environment that supports academic excellence, industry collaboration, and community engagement. As institutions grow, these developments play a crucial role in shaping their competitive edge, ensuring they remain at the forefront of education and research while meeting the evolving needs of students and staff.

Recently Completed Mega Projects

The Multipurpose Hall

The newly constructed multi-purpose facility at Welkom Campus was designed to host on-campus Graduation Ceremonies and various indoor sports events.

This versatile venue features a spacious hall with a viewing gallery, making it ideal for ceremonies, assessments, sporting events, student registrations, examinations, and special lectures. Equipped with a full HVAC (air-conditioning) system and advanced audio-visual technology, the space ensures a comfortable and high-quality experience for all events.

On 5 February 2025, the facility successfully hosted its inaugural event, the Official Opening of the Academic Year.

This venue marks a significant achievement for the Estates and Infrastructure Section, enhancing the campus’s ability to host large-scale events.

New Residences completed end of 2024

To accommodate the growing student population, two new residences were constructed at CUT. The Welkom Campus residence was completed in October 2024, followed by the Bloemfontein Campus residence in November 2024.

A unique “family unit” design was introduced, grouping 15 to 16 students to foster a sense of community, shared responsibility, and support.

Both residences meet the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) standards, ensuring high-quality, cost-effective student housing.

The Bloemfontein campus residence was completed in November 2024 adding 126 beds to CUT's campus accommodation.

The Welkom campus residence was completed in October 2024 adding 221 beds to CUT's campus accommodation.

These new facilities enhance student living experiences while supporting academic success and well-being.

Mega Projects Currently Under Construction

Teacher Education Building

This is the largest ongoing construction project on campus, designed to address the growing need for educational space. It will feature state-of-the-art laboratories, offices, lecture rooms, and a Digital Library, enhancing the academic environment. Strategically located near the campus entrance, the building’s striking design will serve as a prominent landmark.

Progress at the end of February 2025

The Architectural Façade Design

Once completed, the building should resemble the image below.

Jewellery and Sculpting Studios: Bloemfontein Campus

The Estates and Infrastructure team is currently undertaking a major project to construct state-of-the-art Jewellery and Sculpting Studios at the Bloemfontein Campus. This facility addresses the need for a dedicated space following the interim relocation of the Jewellery Design section from Welkom to the Bloemfontein Campus, Kamelia Annex building. 

The new studios, designed to foster creativity and innovation, will feature an art exhibition space, jewellery design studios, a sculpting workshop, and a cutting-edge CAD lab. Once completed in April 2025, this facility will provide students and staff with a dynamic environment to refine their craft and showcase their artistic excellence.

The Architectural Façade Designs

Once completed, the building perspective should resemble the image below.

The envisioned exhibition space