CUT Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (FEBIT) staff members and Engineering Industry partners from the Department of Public Works, The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and The National Treasury during the 2025 FEBIT: Advisory Committee Meeting hosted at the CUT Bloemfontein Campus.

The Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (FEBIT) convened its Advisory Committee Meeting on 14 October 2025 to strengthen partnerships between academia, industry, and government. This year’s engagement marks a pivotal step in aligning FEBIT’s mission with the university’s 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, setting the stage for collaboration that will drive innovation and workforce transformation across the province.

In her opening remarks, Prof. Masinde reaffirmed the faculty’s commitment to equipping students with the skills, mindset, and agility needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Meanwhile, Dr. Kuriakose, Assistant Dean of FEBIT, emphasised the importance of fostering actionable partnerships to ensure the faculty’s academic vision remains aligned with industry demands and future opportunities.

The meeting also featured keynote contributions from representatives of the Free State Provincial Government, including the Department of Public Works, the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), and the National Treasury. The presence of these external stakeholders and industry partners made the gathering a productive and solution-driven endeavour.

Mr. Joseph George, an electrical engineer from the Department of Public Works, highlighted the growing gap between classroom learning and practical on-site industry practices. He stressed the urgent need for hands-on design exposure and strict adherence to SAN standards, calling for stronger collaboration between universities and government departments to bridge software and technical skill gaps. He commended CUT’s potential to serve as a “gap filler” by closing these divides through sustained partnership and collaboration.

Ms. Gloria Moleleki, Provincial Manager for the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), shared an inspiring message of unity and accountability. She urged all stakeholders to not only make commitments but reflect on their measurable impact over time. Addressing the persistent skills shortage in the construction sector, Ms. Moleleki proposed three pathways: structured workplace learning for occupational qualifications, academic-aligned workplace training, and expanded work-integrated learning opportunities through Universities of Technology (UoTs) and comprehensive colleges.

Dr. Ndade Chomane Ponzo, Deputy Director at the Provincial Treasury, underscored the critical role of collaboration in strengthening the economy and reducing unemployment. He highlighted that while the Treasury is not a service delivery department, it holds the responsibility of guiding economic growth through evidence-based research and partnerships with academic institutions. His message was clear: South Africa’s future prosperity depends on the unity of research, policy, and enterprise to create a resilient, inclusive economy.

Through this dialogue, FEBIT continues to cement its position as a catalyst for innovation, connecting classrooms to careers, research to policy, and education to economic impact.