As a future-focused, student-centred University of Technology, CUT stands as the ship that has carried its students through seasons of growth, equipping them with knowledge as their compass, resilience as their anchor and innovation as their wind. Pictured: front row from left, Prof. Pamela Dube, Vice- Chancellor and Principal, Dr Vincent Maphai, Chancellor and Prof. Wendy Setlalentoa, acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, preside over the ceremony as graduates take the stage in celebration to be capped.

Autumn at the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) signals a vibrant season of celebration where years of dedication culminate in well-earned success.

The CUT 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremonies commenced on 19 March 2026 at the Welkom Campus, bringing together graduates, families and friends to celebrate academic excellence and bold new beginnings. In this first leg of the ceremonies 722 graduates took to the stage, each step reflecting perseverance resilience and success.

Beyond the applause and ululations, this year’s ceremony carried a powerful message under the theme ‘Sailing into the New Horizon’, capturing the spirit of graduates ready to embrace the future with confidence and purpose.

In her congratulatory address, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof. Pamela Dube, described graduation as more than an academic ritual but a defining moment of pride and celebration as graduates step boldly into the world.

She reminded graduates that their achievements represent more than numbers but transformed lives, uplifted families and reimagined futures, each one a testament to courage perseverance and the triumph of possibility.

Reflecting on their journeys she acknowledged the challenges they have overcome, academic pressure, financial strain, personal sacrifice and moments of doubt, yet through it all, they remained steadfast adjusting their sails and staying focused on the horizon ahead.

She further encouraged graduates to carry the CUT name with integrity, to open doors for others and to remain connected as part of a global alumni community contributing to society and shaping a better future.

“As we release you into the world, carry the CUT name with integrity. Open doors for those who will follow, return to mentor, collaborate, and contribute. Your success is our success, and our future is strengthened by your continued engagement. As you embark on this new chapter, may you carry with you a deep understanding of the responsibility you bear to contribute to your families, the growth of your communities, the prosperity of our nation, and the advancement of humanity,” she concluded.

This graduation season will see a total of 3970 qualifications conferred including 28 doctoral degrees and 65 master’s degrees, with ceremonies concluding on 26 March 2026 at the Bloemfontein Campus, marking a proud milestone of academic excellence and achievement.