Partnerships between CUT and schools plays an important and critical role in the success of  the region and beyond. On 26 August, South African Principal Association (SAPA) joined CUT academia for a strategic dinner as a way of building and maintaining good relations that already exists. 

Apart from partnership, the bigger picture is for schools to understand the role of CUT as a University of Technology (UoT) and its objective on socio-economic development within the region. In his welcoming note, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof. Thandwa Mthembu outlined the clear focus and purpose of CUT. “As a UoT, our focus and purpose is clear and we are living it. Innovation and Technology is our core business and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is our priority.  I am proud to stand here today and tell you that we are close to a 50% enrolment in those fields as compared with our peers,” he stated. Mr Giel de Villiers, Director for CUT’s Schools Advancement Academy outlined the role that CUT plays in adding value to the local schools. He continued by showcasing their main projects which includes the Saturday Science school project, Winter and summer schools, STEM academy in partnership with Free State Department of Education (which is curently being established) and the Educator Mentorship and Development Programme (EMDP) as CUT’s continuous contribution and support to the improvement of the quality of education in the region. Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic and Research, Prof. Henk de Jager presented on the progress and success of CUT. Prof. Henk also highlighted that CUT has the highest percentage of academics holding Doctorates amongst all other UoT’s. “As a medium sized university, our main focus is to keep it that way so that we produce high quality graduates that are relevant to the industry.” Other role players on the day included Mr Russel Davies, Director for Rural Education Access Programme (REAP) who plays a role in assisting young , motivated and talented rural learners who are financially challenged  to achieve their academic dreams. The interaction was a fruitful one as Principals had an opportunity to meet face to face with the leaders of the institution and ask their burning questions regarding the enrolment processes, new programmes, financial assistance and research development. 

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Prof. Henk de Jager, Mr Pobe, South African Principals Association; Prof. David Ngidi, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities; and Prof. Thandwa Mthembu.