In commemoration of Women’s Month, the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), in partnership with the Institutional Renewal and Transformation Unit (IR&T), hosted its 2026 Women’s Month Commemoration, honouring the historic 1956 Women’s March. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the landmark march, which remains a powerful symbol of women’s courage, resilience and collective action. Held under the theme, “She Rises, She Leads, She Inspires: Empowering Women and Inspiring Change,” the event celebrated the invaluable contributions of women across the institution and reflected on the enduring legacy of the women who paved the way for generations to come.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Samson Mashele, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement, emphasised the vital role women play across the university and highlighted the significant impact of their contributions to the institutional growth and development. “Our approved CUT Strategy 2026–2030 calls upon us to be a leading university of technology that changes lives, transforms society and, of course, changes the future. We cannot realise this vision without the full participation, leadership and contribution of women,” he said.

“Women are central to our teaching and learning, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, community engagement and institutional leadership. Every day, women across CUT are shaping knowledge, driving discovery, supporting student success and strengthening our university. As we implement our Strategic Plan 2026–2030, we remain committed to fostering a university culture founded on Ubuntu, integrity, diversity, excellence, innovation and respect.”

Councillor Logan Kruger, MMC for Public Safety and Transport at the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, delivered the keynote address, calling on women to stand together, work collaboratively and support one another rather than undermine or criticise each other. “We must confront the uncomfortable truth. We frequently rally behind men in power, only to become critics when it is time for us to champion our sisters in similar positions. It is us as females who sit with a red pen when a female is appointed. We are always illuminating and highlighting devastating shortcomings but never seem to see a man highlighting the mistakes of another man. It is us who destroy us.”

Kruger further encouraged women to take ownership of their personal growth and development, emphasising the importance of self-belief, ambition and investing in oneself. She urged women to envision their potential beyond their current circumstances and to take deliberate steps towards achieving their goals. “Transformation in the mind starts with you. By saying to yourself, despite my circumstances, I see myself. And by seeing yourself, you prepare for what you see. Don’t be ambitious in the absence of a development plan; invest in yourself. When you invest in yourself, you will never have time to deal with other things, because you will be too busy concentrating on yourself.”

The commemoration reaffirmed CUT’s commitment to recognising, valuing and empowering women across the institution, regardless of their roles or status. It honoured the legacy of women who paved the way while celebrating the dedication and contributions of those shaping the university’s present and future.

CUT wishes all women a happy and meaningful Women’s Month.