Photo 1: Newly elected CUT Bloemfontein Campus EFFSC SRC 2023/2024 office bearers.

Photo 2: CUT Welkom Campus SASCO SRC 2023/2024 office bearers

The SRC election process has concluded for both campuses and results officially announced with the EFFSC emerging as the leading office bearer for the 2023/2024 academic year at the Bloemfontein campus, while SASCO retained its position as the leading party at the Welkom campus.

Several parties contended for positions on the SRC at the Bloemfontein campus, including the Economic Freedom Fighters Student Congress (EFFSC), South African Student Congress (SASCO), Revolution Movement, and the Pan Africanist Student Movement of Azania. Meanwhile, on the Welkom campus, SASCO, EFFSC, Pan Africanist Student Movement of Azania (PASMA), and the Fruity Gang, representing the LGBTQIA+ community, were in the running.

Professor Samson Mashele, the acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal at the time, extended his warmest congratulations to all successful candidates and commended all student who participated in the democratic process. He emphasized that the SRC elections are a crucial event in the university's life, representing the enthusiasm and passion of the student body and serving as the foundation of student governance. He also highlighted the peaceful and constructive nature of this year's election, emphasizing the maturity and responsibility displayed by the students throughout the campaign period.

Refilwe Pesa, the Constitution and Legal Affairs Officer for the 2023/2024 newly elected SRC, expressed satisfaction with the election process. She mentioned that the voting process went smoothly, with clear instructions and a user-friendly website. While there were some issues with access keys, Pesa praised SASCO for its resilience and success in the elections. Overall, she affirmed their satisfaction with the voting system.

In conclusion, the 2023 SRC elections were marked by enthusiastic participation, responsible conduct, and a successful democratic process that resulted in the EFFSC and SASCO securing leadership positions on both campuses respectively.

SRC SASCO president Dangobe Mosa from the Welkom campus and EFFSC president Metsing Matlhaku shared the same sentiments that the process was overwhelming and heartwarming. They also highlighted their intention of ensuring that the students’ voices are heard at all times.