The Institutional Renewal and Transformation Unit, in partnership with the Wellness Centre, hosted a virtual LGBTQIA+ awareness webinar featuring university leadership, students, staff, researchers and community advocates, who engaged in meaningful discussions on fostering inclusion, respect and belonging across the CUT community.

The Central University of Technology Free State (CUT) reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful and equitable institutional culture during its 2026 LGBTQIA+ Awareness Webinar, held on 21 July 2026 under the theme, “Celebrating Diversity, Inspiring Inclusion, Building Campuses Where Everyone Belongs.”

Hosted by the Institutional Renewal and Transformation Unit in partnership with the Wellness Centre, the webinar brought together university leadership, students, staff, researchers, community organisations and advocates to explore the role of higher education in advancing dignity, equality and social inclusion.

In her remarks, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof. Pamela Dube, reaffirmed CUT’s commitment to fostering an environment where every individual feels respected, valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully to university life. Drawing on the principles of Ubuntu, she emphasised that diversity is a source of strength, noting that innovation, learning and institutional excellence flourish when people are free to contribute fully and authentically.

Prof. Dube highlighted the importance of cultivating campuses where discrimination, prejudice and exclusion have no place. She called on the CUT community to demonstrate inclusion through everyday actions, mutual respect and meaningful engagement. She further encouraged staff and students to continue building a university where dignity, equality and belonging are lived experiences, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the institution’s collective success.

Delivering the keynote address, Pierre Brouard, Clinical Psychologist, researcher and LGBTQIA+ human rights advocate from the University of Pretoria, focused on the importance of building institutions where all individuals can experience dignity, acceptance and belonging. He encouraged participants to reflect on how institutional culture and everyday interactions shape inclusion within university communities.

Student leaders, community activists and higher education practitioners also shared valuable insights and lived experiences on issues affecting LGBTQIA+ individuals. Discussions explored the respectful use of pronouns, the importance of creating safe and inclusive campus environments, strategies for addressing discrimination and bullying, supporting mental health and wellbeing, and fostering open, respectful dialogue on gender identity and sexual orientation.

A central message throughout the webinar was that meaningful inclusion requires the collective commitment of staff, students and stakeholders. Participants were encouraged to challenge discrimination, celebrate diversity and contribute to building a campus culture where every individual feels welcomed, valued and respected.

By Bontlebalerato Chake