MEC Dr. Mantlhake Julia Maboya delivers an inspiring speech to learners and stakeholders at the Campus Principal's Open Day, Welkom Campus.

The Matric Winter School at the Welkom Campus has concluded, marking the successful end of a ten-day programme that combined focused curriculum support with immersive exposure to higher education. Developed through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between CUT and the Lejweleputswa District, the initiative underscores a collective commitment to expand access, nurture talent, and raise matric performance among township learners.

In her keynote address, Free State MEC for Education, Dr. Mantlhake Julia Maboya, emphasised the programme’s transformative purpose. The MEC said that the camp is part of a broader strategic effort by the Department of Education to bridge educational inequalities through innovation, partnerships, and learner-centred programmes.

She noted that this Winter School is more than just academic assistance; it is a life-changing impact initiative and a gateway to the future for learners who deserve better. She spoke about the importance of dismantling past inequalities and disrupting a narrative where township learners were seen only as hewers of wood and drawers of water. Instead, she reaffirmed that education, when backed by vision and partnership, can shift trajectories, rebuild teams, and transform communities. “By opening university doors to learners, you have not only created access, but restored hope,” she added. “The long-term vision is clear: to ensure that these learners return to the CUT Welkom Campus not as just visitors, but as enrolled students, graduates, and future leaders. This initiative is a shining example of what it truly means for a university to plough back into its community.”

Back row: Matric Winter School camp top achievers in the Lejweleputswa District (back row) with the Central University of Technology Leadership and Department of Education Officials. Front row from left: Mr Samuel Mokgobo, Chief Director: District Management, Lejweleputswa Education District Director. Ms Phehello Zonke, Free State MEC for Education, Dr. Mantlhake Julia Maboya, CUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof. Pamela Dube and Welkom Campus Principal, Dr Joe Molete.

When addressing the learners, CUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof. Pamela Dube emphasised the university’s ongoing commitment to nation-building. “We want to create that future, a generation of intellectuals that will serve the country in all spheres of society. Our work is aligned with national priorities, and we are committed to addressing inequality through impactful research and inclusive access to education.”

Prof. Dube also urged learners to utilise the available support systems and to remain steadfast in their educational journeys. “Even when the journey is tough, believe in yourself. Education is not just a path to a certificate; it is a means to uplift your family and contribute to nation-building.”

At the principals’ opening ceremony, academic excellence was also celebrated. A group of top-performing learners was acknowledged across key subjects, including Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Geography. Among them, Fortune Hlatshwayo from Repholositswe Secondary School stood out as the overall top achiever, recording 100% in all four subjects he was enrolled in. “It wasn’t easy; the competition was fierce. But with perseverance and support from family, friends, and teachers, I managed to prove myself. This opportunity has changed my life, and I now hope to become a CUT student next year,” he shared.

As CUT continues to leverage its academic and institutional strengths, the success of the Matric Winter School camp affirms the power of collaboration between the university, the education department, and local communities to deliver access, equity, and opportunity to every learner.

As learners return home, they not only take with them the academic lessons, but they also carry a renewed sense of purpose, hope, and possibility. The message was clear: the journey may be challenging, but each brave step taken is a step toward a brighter future.

Uploaded: 11 July 2025