Dignitaries from CUT and Samsung with the SIC graduates.

The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) in partnership with Samsung recently hosted a graduation ceremony where certificates were awarded to 21 students from the 3rd cohort that have successfully completed studies in AI in the prestigious Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC) programme.

At this year’s graduation, one of the most outstanding achievements that this SIC partnership with CUT is also celebrating, is that 16 out of the 21 students have already secured employment. And for now, five (5) of these graduating students have opted to further their studies instead of pursuing job opportunities.

In the last four years, this SIC programme has been able to equip enthusiastic, young participants with in-demand skills in 4IR including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IOT), Big Data as well as Coding and Programming (C&P). This third cohort of CUT students that is now graduating with skills in AI; were also part of the second cohort that completed Coding and Programming in Python. The programme has been structured in such a way that it includes theoretical learning, practical sessions, and capstone projects.

These essential skills have not only prepared them for the demands of the modern tech industry but have also turned them into a group of eligible young professionals - able to secure permanent employment in the local market. This global SIC programme is in line with the country’s transformation goals outlined in the National Development Plan, the long-term strategic plan for SA's future which aims to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030.

When delivering her address, Prof. Wendy Setlalentoa, acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement said that the event is a testament to the transformative power of collaboration. “This programme isn’t just a training platform, it’s a catalyst for growth and development, significantly reshaping the region’s digital landscape. We are grateful to Samsung for choosing to partner with our institution and helping us make a lasting difference in the lives of young people in South Africa. This partnership is a perfect example of a well-functioning and mutually beneficial public, private partnership (PPP) with tangible examples of how to address youth unemployment and skills development. In the last four years, our institution has had the opportunity to play a crucial role in providing the curriculum and training for students in 4IR skills and focus on developing practical skills that have helped prepare our graduates for future careers in innovation and technology space,” added Prof. Setlalentoa.

Top performers at the Samsung Innovation Campus certificate handover ceremony, from left: Bowman Wessels (3rd), Botle Nqobo (2nd) and Mpho Ramaisa (1st).

She commended the SIC initiative for their role in bridging the academia and industry gaps, and for raising CUT’s profile as a hub of innovation. “Samsung didn’t just show up with a logo and a laptop, they showed up with a vision, resources, expertise and a sincere belief in the potential of our students. Your presence is helping us rewrite the narrative of what’ is possible in places like Bloemfontein, Welkom, Botshabelo, and beyond. As the next wave of tech talent emerges from the Free State, the success of the Samsung Innovation Campus reminds us that the future doesn’t arrive, it’s built, line by line, student by student.”

Lefa Makgato, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager for Samsung Electronics in Southern Africa said: “We are very proud of what this partnership has achieved in the last four years; and how well its accomplishments align with the country’s vision 2030 goals. Importantly, this collaboration with CUT has also ensured that these students are now equipped with skills to contribute to the digital economy. But most importantly, in conjunction with CUT – we have now been able to accomplish Samsung’s education vision which centres around fostering future technological leaders and ICT entrepreneurs by providing accessible and engaging learning experiences that integrate technology and real-world application.”

Uploaded: 30 June 2025