CUT DVC Research Innovation and Engagement and Free State Provincial government officials (front row) with the top 100 matriculants from schools in the Free State District Municipalities (back row).

The Central University of Technology proudly joined hands with the Free State Department of Education to celebrate the province's outstanding academic achievements, with a historic record-high matric pass rate of 89.03% in 2023.

In his welcome address, Prof. Alfred Ngowi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor mentioned that the collaboration between CUT and the Department has grown immensely. He acknowledged the pivotal role played by the Free State Department of Education in shaping the educational narrative and praised role players for their commitment to excellence. “I would like to thank those on the ground and the learners for ensuring that the Free State remains the game changer in education. As a token of appreciation to the province, CUT has set aside student bursaries that will be allocated to matriculants who have applied to CUT, providing them with financial support to pursue their higher education goals.”

MEC Makalo Mohale, emphasised the province's intention to cultivate a system that nurtures innovators. He expressed pride in the province's record-breaking 89.03% pass rate, a testament to the commitment of delivering quality education to the Free State youth. He acknowledged the call by the Honourable Premier and the governing party to intensify efforts to elevate the quality of education provided.

“We’ve also made history as the province of the Free State, much as at the level of the nation or a country level, we have achieved the highest. We’re quite happy that we’re doing well in terms of the past, and we have taken very seriously the call to ensure that the quality of education for the youngsters is elevated even further.”

Premier Mxolisi Dukwana attributed the Free State's outstanding matric pass results to the robust education system implemented over the years. Despite the setback caused by the unfortunate passing of MEC Tate Makgoe, the Premier expressed confidence in the resilience of the system.

"The emphasis in our case moving forward is to re-look into the quality of our education and make sure that all our students acquire some skills that will help them prosper."  He highlighted the importance of focusing not only on academic achievements but also on equipping the youth with practical skills for aspiring artisans.

Meanwhile, CUT welcomed the first-year students from different parts of the country for registration. The registrations commenced as scheduled and the faculty academic advisors were upbeat in ensuring that all registering first-years have a memorable and smooth-running process for their registration.