CUT alumni honoured for achieving 100 percent (100%) pass rate in the 2025 National Senior Certificate  Examination. From left: Alphias Phatlane, Civil Technology, Teboho Lipoli, Electrical Technology, Ernest Modise, Civil Technology, Thabiso Maboea, Mechanical Technology, Teboho Moeketsi, Mechanical Technology, and Sibusiso Dube, Civil Technology.

At the recent Lejweleputswa Top Achievers Well Done function held at the Welkom Campus, six CUT alumni educators received Merit Certificates for attaining a 100 percent pass rate in the subjects they teach. This outstanding achievement is a powerful endorsement of their academic excellence, professional commitment and the calibre of preparation they received at CUT.

The achievement carries particular significance in demanding technical subjects such as Civil Technology, Mechanical Technology and Electrical Technology, where learner success depends on both sound theoretical understanding and practical application. These results highlight the critical role that well prepared educators play in strengthening performance within the basic education system.

Several of the recognised teachers are graduates of the Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching: Specialisation: Technology, offered through CUT’s Faculty of Humanities. The programme develops strong subject specialisation alongside advanced pedagogical expertise, equipping future educators with the confidence and competence required to teach technical subjects effectively.

Among the honourees was Mr Thabiso Maboea, who first completed a National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering from the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology before obtaining a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. His combination of engineering knowledge and professional teaching qualification reflects the powerful integration of technical depth and instructional skill that strengthens Mechanical Technology teaching in schools.

Another award recipient, Mr Teboho Moeketsi, a teacher at Lenakeng Technical School in Welkom and a graduate of the Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Technology, credited the university with laying a solid professional foundation for his career.

“At CUT I trained in both the technical knowledge and the teaching skills required to guide my niche career path. This has enabled me to deliver knowledge effectively as a professional technical teacher. The training I received gave me confidence in the classroom and shaped the way I present content. I am proud to see my learners perform exceptionally and succeed. This 100 percent pass rate reflects the strong foundation and values of excellence instilled in us,” he said.

This district level recognition affirms CUT’s ongoing contribution to strengthening technical education in the Free State. Through its Faculty of Humanities and its Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, the university continues to produce competent, skilled and classroom ready educators who make a meaningful difference in schools and communities.

As these alumni uphold the highest academic standards, their achievements stand as a testament to the impact of quality teacher education and to CUT’s growing influence in advancing excellence across the basic education system.