Following a successful official opening at the Welkom Campus, Bloemfontein Campus officially welcomed its students on 10 February 2024. With last year's intake totalling 4,466 for first-time entering undergraduates and over 300 international students, this year's admission saw 4,515 new students, underscoring the university's commitment to academic excellence and inclusivity.

In her address, Prof. Pamela Dube, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, mentioned that 2024 holds a particular significance for the university as it celebrates two decades of existence. “This marks a significant milestone for the university as it also celebrates its 20th anniversary as a beacon of technological education.” She expressed pride in the foundation laid by the university's staff and students, setting the stage for continued innovation and excellence, and highlighted the university's growing reputation as a center of excellence.

She emphasised the impact of this anniversary as an opportunity to showcase the CUT’s potential to forge partnerships that will propel it into the future. “Our university continues to make significant strides among its peers. In our 20s, we are young yet vibrant and agile. We have the advantage of age and must use this anniversary to showcase and optimise our potential and court potential partners."

She further highlighted the university’s role in empowering students with knowledge, skills, and values essential for navigating life's challenges. She mentioned the university's diverse learning opportunities, robust research centers, and integrated curriculum. She proudly shared the institution's faculty credentials, including 23 NRF-rated researchers and the hosting of the prestigious DST-NRF Research Chair Initiative.

“Our university has a vibrant student life. We focus on academics and participate in sports and other cultural activities that will make our students good all-rounders. Our students' achievements are a testament to the talent and dedication that we support and embrace. They are paving the way for future generations of students to achieve greatness and positively impact the world.

When sharing students’ success stories with the audience, Prof. Dube had this to say, “in some of our recent achievements, six of our debate team members participated in the SA National Universities Debating Championships. Out of the six participating members, two teams advanced to the semi-final and one to the final. The SA Debating Council awarded the CUT Team a certificate for outstanding performance, testifying to their excellence and hard work. 

The Bloemfontein Campus Choir has once again achieved an impressive feat by securing the overall position 1 in the Gold category for African and Western songs. The choir has proven its prowess and talent, and this was their first time entering the large group category, which makes their achievement more commendable. 

Our radio station-CUT FM is a fast-growing campus radio station that provides informative and entertaining content that is relevant, contemporary, and impactful to the youth. It is one of the first self-transmitting campus radio stations and has established a solid partnership with 5FM for presenter volunteer development. The station provides a conducive platform for student media and has a historical decade of youth talent development, nurturing showbiz and radio personalities.”

In her concluding remarks, Prof. Dube emphasised the importance of balancing academic and social activities. She also warned against neglecting studies due to the excitement of university life.