Prof. Muthoni Masinde, Dean: Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, the Deputy Minister of Transport: Mr Mkhuleko Hlengwa, Prof. Lize Theron, Head of CUT’s CiviLab, acting Free State Premier Mr Jabu Mbalula, Dr Masego Tshabalala, Head of Department: Free State Community Safety, Road and Transport, Prof. Alfred Ngowi, DVC: Research Innovation and Engagement, Ms Zee Thiso and Mr Johnny Mosai from CiviLab. 

Front row: Mr F Kirangwa, Ms Andrea Cerfontyne and Mr Njabs Baloi from CiviLab.  

CUT is making significant strides in addressing the pressing challenges of road infrastructure in the Free State. On 20 November 2024, the Deputy Minister of Transport, Mr Mkhuleko Hlengwa, alongside acting Free State Premier Mr Jabu Mbalula visited CUT to assess the progress of the Pothole Eradication Project (PEP) led by Prof. Lize Theron, Head of CUT’s CivilLab. This initiative prioritises training, road repairs, and research, reflecting its commitment to sustainable development goals. 

The collaborative effort between CUT and the Free State Provincial Government, operates under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), addressing road infrastructure challenges while fostering skills development and job creation for unskilled women and youth. 

Prof. Theron highlighted the programme’s impact, noting its milestones in infrastructure repair and community empowerment. “The PEP focuses on three intertwined pillars: training, pothole repair, and research. This unique approach demonstrates how academic insight, innovation, and provincial governance can converge to address pressing infrastructural challenges. In May 2024, over 12 000 person-days of work were created, benefitting diverse groups. CUT students, using a GIS-based monitoring system, have ensured real-time oversight and accountability in project sites, further enhancing the initiative’s efficiency.” 

She further explained that the research component of the PEP is focused on developing sustainable and cost-effective pothole repair solutions. “This involves innovative asphalt materials and geotechnical risk management strategies to enhance infrastructure longevity. The project’s alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, further establishes it as a benchmark for urban resilience and sustainable development.” 

The Deputy Minister of Transport, Mr Mkhuleko Hlengwa lauded the project’s innovative approach, particularly its GIS monitoring tool, which provides comprehensive project oversight. The acting Free State Premier Mr Jabu Mbalula expressed interest in applying the tool to other provincial projects, demonstrating its potential for broader implementation. 

Discussions are underway to expand the project’s framework, potentially involving national stakeholders such as SANRAL and SALGA. Meetings with key partners will be held to explore opportunities for scaling the programme while preserving its academic and innovative essence.