The registration process for the academic year 2017 started on 10 January. The process proceeded smoothly as online registrations have become a norm at CUT. In taking their first step to a greater path, the class of 2016 waited patiently and peacefully at the Boet Troskie Hall for their turn to register. CUT also welcomed the first year students’ walk-ins depending on the availability of programmes. Even though CUT has turned to online registration to do away with long queues, some students still prefer the manual system, face-to-face interaction and have the feel of being at the university.

  

While the registration process ran smooth, challenges and hiccups loomed from the effects of the fees must fall campaign as new students were anxious about securing a place at the university. Other uncertainties for both new and current students were due to the delayed response from funding institutions. By the close of business on 20 January, the first year undergraduate students registered in all programmes were only 3 109 which is about 75,10% of the set target. The total amount of registered students amounted to 10 616. According to CUT's Chief Financial Officer, Ms Precious Dube, there has been developments and engagements with different stakeholders around the issue of student fees in the institutions of higher learning. This is in a bid to reach the most sustainable solution suitable for both the students and the universities. “Student debt from 2016 is in excess of R170 million. This is not sustainable for the institution. Thus, responsible decisions have to be made to ensure the full collection of this debt because each year, student fees contribute over 35% of the total budget needed to run the institution. Continuous failure by students to settle their debt timeously compromises the smooth and successful running of the institution,” said Ms Dube in a released communique. 

 

The registration process remains open until all programmes are full and the first year orientation and official welcome of students for Welkom campus will be on 21 and 26 January respectively. Bloemfontein campus orientation is from 23-27 while the official welcome will be held on 28 January. Classes will commence on 30 January 2017. 

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During registration weeks, staff and senior students assist prospective first-years to enrol at CUT.