CUT in collaboration with the Free State Provincial Government held the 5^th annual Free State Provincial Research Colloquium from 28-29 September 2022 at the Bloemfontein Campus under the theme “Transitioning the provincial economy through an inclusive economic growth and competitive recovery.”

Various university researchers and key stakeholders from Free State Government departments came together to discuss the challenges and explore research solutions that can be employed to bring about sustainable economic development and growth in the province.

In his welcoming address, Prof. Alfred Ngowi, acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal, expressed his sincere gratitude and welcomed all guests for honouring the annual Free State Research Colloquium. He stated that the point of focus in this year’s conference is to exchange ideas, participate effectively, draw some lessons from the newly acquired knowledge in order to apply and manage activities in all respective areas of responsibility.

“It is pleasing to note that this year’s theme covers a wide range of interesting topics related to all theoretical and practical aspects, including developing human capabilities, improving institutional capabilities, harnessing innovative technologies to support economic growth and local development, and developing a dynamic transformation of human settlement terrain,” said Prof. Ngowi.

When highlighting the objectives of the colloquium, MEC for Finance, Ms Gadija Brown, said the main objective of the 2022 Research Colloquium is to facilitate knowledge sharing and deepen the understanding on how to devise and implement effective policy tools to move the provincial economy on an appropriate growth path, as well as physical sustainability that will support the economic recovery, to improve public governance, cut off wasteful expenditure, deliver quality services to the people and enhance technological innovations.

“We have available, arable land and ready for whichever project could create economic viability. With the use of technology and innovation, land, processes of Public Private Partnership (PPP), compliance of governments prescripts on supply chains as well as of those job creators of water and electricity, the balance of skilled and unskilled people; nothing can stop us from achieving what other countries are doing so well. All we need is the willpower,” said MEC Brown.

Caption

From left: Prof. Alfred Ngowi, acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Free State MEC for Finance, Ms Gadija Brown, and Ms Masechaba Sesing, Head of the Department: Free State Provincial Treasury.

Uploaded: 30 September 2022