The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) is passionate about the academic development and wellbeing of employees and students. Welkom Campus is making important landmarks in the history of its existence and is transforming into a fully-fledged and vibrant university campus. This is evidenced by the opening of the state-of-the-art cafeteria and health care clinic on 10 October 2019 as a significant moment of change and transformation on the campus.

In his address, Prof. Henk de Jager, Vice-Chancellor and Principal said that he was ecstatic about the progress that was taking place at Welkom Campus and pleased to be part of the historical day on campus. He mentioned that the cafeteria and clinic are critical elements of the academic project at any university, as they serve many purposes including improvement of healthful living among staff and students, provision food and drinks, a conducive environment and common meeting place for staff and student’s social networking.

“I am grateful that this project is completed and will serve its purpose of bringing people together; it is much easier than in a formal environment like a lecture hall. It is, therefore, an integral part of student development because through socialisation, we can enhance ourselves, make new friends and acclimatise.”

Later Prof. de Jager opened the clinic, a structure which was designed refurbished from an old existing building by internal employees. The entity is envisioned to promote and contribute to the wellbeing of staff and students. About R10 million was invested in this project with the support from the Council and the Department of Higher Education and Training.

Caption

1: At the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the first phase of the brand new cafeteria with a well equipped kitchen and a seating capacity of 150 students is from left: Mr Thato Caleni, Welkom Campus SRC President; Mr Hennie Botha, Principal Agent of the project; Dr Gary Paul, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Resources and Operations; Ms Dimakatso Phala, SRC Transformation Officer; Prof. Henk de Jager, Vice-Chancellor and Principal and Prof. Solomon Makola, Welkom Campus Director.

2:  The refurbished and extended cafeteria.

3: The primary health care clinic surpasses the minimal standards set by the Department of Health for such a facility, and thus is considered state-of-the-art in the sector.