The Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the Central University of Technology (CUT), Prof. Henk de Jager is leaving his position on 30 September 2021. Prof. de Jager has been the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of CUT since 2017 and will vacate his position effectively at the end of September 2021.

Cllr. Matthew Rantso, Chairperson of Council commended Prof. de Jager, for his enormous contribution to the university throughout the years of his service at CUT. “Prof. de Jager has served CUT admirably in his role as VC under extraordinary challenges facing CUT and the sector. The CUT Council is proud of his contributions, especially his sustained efforts in building external partnerships with government, business, and industry,” said Cllr. Rantso.

Prof. de Jager’s association with CUT dates to 2012 when he was Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic and Research until 2015; and later, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation, and Engagement. Under his leadership, CUT has made significant strides, including increasing permanently appointed academic staff with doctorates to 40 percent. CUT has also added numerous new academic, research and innovation programmes to its offerings.

“I will always be thankful for the work we, as a collective, have achieved at CUT and the meaningful relationships that we have developed over the years,” said Prof. de Jager.

Professor de Jager conveyed his appreciation to the CUT and Council for allowing him to lead the University under complex challenges brought by COVID-19. “I am optimistic that CUT will continue to impact the lives of all South Africans positively,” concluded Prof. de Jager.

The process to find a new Vice-Chancellor and Principal of CUT is already underway to realise Vision 2030 which states that “By 2030, Central University of Technology, Free State will be a leading African University of Technology, shaping the future through innovation”.

“CUT wishes Professor de Jager every success with the future and hopes he continues to have a positive impact on education in this country,” concluded Cllr Rantso.

Achievements in roles

Vice-Chancellor and Principal (PDF)

Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic and Research (PDF)

Caption

1: Professor Henk de Jager delivering his farewell address.
2: From left: Mr Letsoalo Letsoalo, Junior Project Engineer: CRPM, who handed over a CUT 3D printed titanium trophy, Dr Gary Paul, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Resources and Operations, Cllr Matthew Rantso, Dr Sally Dzingwa, Institutional Registrar, Prof. Henk de Jager (holding his trophy) and his wife, Dr Miemsie de Jager.