The Tsonga student cultural group lit up the stage with their vibrant Xibelani dance, celebrating heritage, culture and the spirit of Ubuntu. Through rhythmic movement, music and traditional expression, the performance showcased the richness of Xitsonga culture.

Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) Welkom Campus brought Heritage Month to life through a vibrant multi-cultural event hosted by the Governance and Student Life Unit under Student Affairs. Held under the theme “Reimagining our Heritage Institutions for a New Era,” the event celebrated the richness of South Africa’s diverse cultures through music, dance, poetry, drama, and storytelling, while creating a platform for students to celebrate where they come from and explore how culture can be carried into the future.

One of the highlights was a vibrant cultural wedding staged by students from the residences, featuring a Pedi bride and a Xhosa groom. Through this creative performance, students brought traditional customs and cultural knowledge to life, celebrating love, heritage and the shared values that connect communities. The performance created a meaningful opportunity for students to learn from one another, honour cultural differences and celebrate the rich diversity that unites communities.

At the staged wedding, representatives from the Xhosa and Pedi families engaged in a traditional wedding exchange, showcasing the richness of cultural customs, heritage, and shared values. The exchange highlighted the importance of family, respect and tradition, while providing students with an opportunity to experience, learn about, and appreciate customary practices from different cultural backgrounds.

Students from different cultural backgrounds come together to celebrate their African roots, heritage, and identity, while embracing the rich diversity that exists within the university community. Through shared dance and cultural expression, they also honoured the importance of preserving African Heritage and embodied the spirit of Ubuntu.

For Ms Maggie Henson, Student Development Officer, the event provided students with an opportunity to experience heritage beyond textbooks and appreciate the cultures that shaped the university community. “Heritage lives through us. When students came together to share their cultures, stories and traditions, they kept them alive while creating space to learn from one another.”

SRC President Makhasana Makhasana said the event was a reminder of the importance of knowing and celebrating one’s roots. “Africa is united by its diversity, and we must always remember where we come from. Events like these allow us to celebrate our different customs, learn from one another and bring our students together.”