Never stop learning: Newly crowned Dr Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa (centre) urges CUT graduates to lead boldly and embrace lifelong growth as she proudly holds her honorary certificate, joined by Vice- Chancellor and Principal, Prof. Pamela Dube (left) and CUT Chancellor, Dr Vincent Maphai.

Graduation season at the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) Bloemfontein Campus is in full swing, running through 26 March 2026 and celebrating far more than academic success. It is a vibrant showcase of partnership, leadership and excellence in action. As ululation echoes through the Boet Troskie Hall, the moment is elevated even further with the conferral of an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration on Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa, honouring a leader whose impact embodies the very spirit of progress these celebrations represent.

Receiving her Honorary Doctorate, Dr Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa delivered a powerful message. “Graduation is not the finish line; it is only the beginning. We live in a world of continuous learning,” she told graduates. “Earning your degree today does not mean the end of your education. You must keep learning.”

CUT Chancellor, Dr Vincent Maphai, robes newly acclaimed alumna, Dr Phuthi Mahanyele Dabengwa, following the conferral of her Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration.

Reflecting on her journey, she credited her success to the values instilled by her parents. Despite humble beginnings, they pursued education with determination, a drive she now sees reflected in today’s graduates.

Her career has spanned the globe, yet one truth remains constant. Education opened every door. In a rapidly changing world shaped by artificial intelligence and shifting global dynamics, she posed a critical challenge. Are we preparing young people not just to participate, but to lead?

Dr Mahanyele-Dabengwa said she believes CUT is rising to that challenge. “This institution’s ‘Thinking Beyond’ is not just a slogan, it is a national strategy,” she said. Pointing to innovations in smart cities, research work on food security and sustainable agriculture and Center for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing, she described CUT as a university with the potential to shape South Africa’s future.

Addressing her fellow graduates, her message was clear. Think bigger, act bolder and step forward with confidence. “You are in a space with strong female leadership, embrace that,” she urged. “Do not wait for permission to lead. Do not wait until you feel ready. Be ready, and when opportunity comes, especially to the women, do not doubt yourself. Take the risk and grow into it.”

Her closing words carried both clarity and urgency. In a fast-changing world, courage and continuous learning are the true qualifications for success.