“The day to stop blaming your parents and the society for all your failures starts today. This is also a day to begin your new developmental phase and discover who you are and where your passion is,” these were the words from Vice-Chancellor and Principal for CUT, Prof. Thandwa Mthembu, during the official opening of the university for 2016 academic year that was held on 29 and 30 January at Welkom and Bloemfontein Campuses respectively.  The official opening is an important day on the university calendar as it symbolises a new year, new beginning and a new chapter for both old and new CUT students and staff. 

Prof. Mthembu welcomed the first-year students, parents and guardians and assured them that they have made the right choice by enrolling their children with the university. When addressing the new students, he enlightened them about the strategic intervention programmes that CUT has put in place for them to adjust and adopt swiftly into the culture of teaching and learning. “There are a number of programmes specifically designed for you to overcome any academic challenges that you might face during your first year. These programmes are of high standards and geared towards the market, they are there to assist you to perform at your peak, as we want to see u graduate at the end of your career.” He further highlighted that CUT is young, innovative and a relatively small university but punches above its weight. “Its shape and size gives us an advantage of paying attention to detail; thus allowing us a better intervention amongst our staff and students who are the core agents of change,” said Prof. Mthembu. 

He shared the highlights on milestones reached by the university:

• CUT achieved a success rate of 75% in 2014, making it one of the highest in higher education sector and Universities of Technology,
• CUT produced the highest number of graduates (3 300) in 2015 and has the highest number (33%) of academic staff with doctorate degrees,
• 48, 3% of the student body enrolment is in the faculties that focus on Engineering, Science, and Technology.
• Newly built infrastructures at both campuses including the residence in Welkom campus that will add to the growth of the campus and benefit students in a big way.

Prof. Thandwa also applauded the 2015/16 SRC for the cooperation and leadership skills they had shown during the 2015 ‘Fees must fall campaign’, citing that he was grateful for the leadership attributes they possess and he is confident that they will lead the ship to the shore safely. He urged students to be the agents of change in their communities and avoid indulging in substances that will put them at risk. “You are on the right journey to the steps of development. Get your qualifications, be innovative, graduate, and uplift your families and communities from poverty and social changes that continue to hinder economic growth.” One parent who attended the opening, Mrs Mpembe said that she was content with what she saw and heard about the university. She said that the presence of the teaching staff at the official opening showed commitment and passion for their work.  “I will go home without any worries because I know that my child is in good hands. This is a home away from home,” she said. 

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During the Bloemfontein opening, CUT students showed that although the institution focuses its endeavours on academic excellence, extracurricular activities, which allows students a moment to enjoy life is encouraged.