CUT hosted its annual Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards on 30 October 2019 to celebrate the exceptional performances of its employees who have distinguished themselves among their peers for their contributions and exceptional achievements in research and innovation, teaching, community engagement and support services categories, which are aligned with the university’s vision. The awards are also meant to sustain the spirit of excellence amongst employees to continue delivering quality education in the higher education landscape.

When acknowledging the recipients, Prof. Henk de Jager, Vice-Chancellor and Principal said “Excellence is a continuous moving target, and these awards should encourage you to do better in 2020 and beyond. As CUT, we have embraced the human project which focuses on valuing people who are prepared to walk the extra mile. These accolades are a symbol to recognise your hard work and dedication, and it is only through people like you that we can create an exceptional university. As we celebrate you tonight, we also want to thank you for bringing credit to this university. Without your tireless efforts, this institution is nothing.”

In conclusion, Prof. De Jager extended his appreciation to the families and spouses of recipients for the undying support they have provided to their loved ones. “You are a safe haven for our employees. It is through your love and support that we have gathered here tonight.”

The recipients not only received certificates of excellence but were also awarded cash cheques to enhance their research endeavours. The nominees received awards in the following categories: teaching, research and innovation, scholarship in community engagement and support employee.

Caption

1: The Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence awards recipients are from left-front row: Dr Eben Proos, Early Career Teaching award winner, Ms Tsholofelo Tshehlana, Specialist and Supervisors award, Mrs Lisa Nel, Community Engagement award, Prof. Henk de Jager, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Dr Saheed Oke, Early Career Research Award, Prof. Dillip Das, Innovation award, Mr Thabo Ngobeni, Innovation award. Backrow from left: Mr James Honiball, Innovation award, Mr Titus Williams, Senior and Middle Management award, Prof. Kanzumba Kusakana, Mid- Career Research award, Dr Ben Kotze, Advanced Career-Teaching Award.

2: Mr Titus Williams, one of the recipients in the support employee category received a R10 000 cash cheque for his hard work and diligence in serving the university. He is flanked by the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof. Henk de Jager (left) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Resources and Operations, Dr Gary Paul.