Prof. Pamela Dube, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, and His Excellency Dong-han Yang, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea.

The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) and Samsung proudly celebrated the graduation of 46 students from two cohorts in the Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC) programme on 10 September 2024. These students, through their hard work and dedication, have not only completed the program but have also set a benchmark for future participants.

The first cohort included 20 students who completed Coding and Programming in Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the second cohort included 26 students who completed Coding and Programming in Python. This marks the continuation of the impactful partnership between Samsung and CUT, which began with signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) in November 2022.

The SIC programme, part of Samsung’s global corporate social investment initiatives, is designed to equip students with essential skills from the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). It primarily targets university students, recent graduates, and young professionals looking to enhance their technical skills and knowledge. The 46 graduates completed a rigorous curriculum combining theoretical learning and practical application, focusing on the cutting-edge area of Coding and Programming.

Prof. Pamela Dube, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, stated that the inception of the CUT–Samsung programme in 2023 marked a significant milestone in the university’s journey toward fostering innovative teaching and learning. This partnership has directly enhanced the readiness of graduates to engage with industries both locally and internationally.

“The collaborative efforts between Samsung and CUT have placed us on an upward trajectory, particularly in promoting and supporting STEM education. Our students have acquired invaluable knowledge and skills in Python programming, machine learning, and AI development, all of which are critical in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Furthermore, our staff has benefitted from exposure to international working relationships, cutting-edge technologies, and the development of a wide range of hard and soft skills.”

Mr Simon Lee, CEO and President of Samsung Africa, stated that the ultimate objective of the SIC partnership is to contribute to the national imperative of creating a work-ready and employable group of CUT students.

“It is truly a special moment to witness the successful execution of the partnership with the CUT. This SIC programme helps young students and adults develop skills required for IT functions such as programming, Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data through theoretical and hands-on training.”

He added that the programme has experienced significant growth at CUT, with female participation increasing to 50%. This growth demonstrates the programme's success and the increasing interest in 4IR skills. Mr Lee congratulated the 46 graduates, acknowledging that some have secured employment, continued their studies, or pursued entrepreneurship. “The collective vision of our partnership is not only to enable and empower CUT students with expertise with 4IR expertise, but also to turn all graduates into future technological leaders.”

His Excellency Dong-han Yang, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, also attended the ceremony and emphasised the importance of education in bridging gaps and driving national development. He encouraged graduates to continue applying their skills to advance South Africa’s position in the global 4IR landscape. “What you have learned through these courses will be a valuable lesson. I highly encourage you to further develop and apply the skills and experience you have gained through this course and to make a significant contribution to positioning South Africa at the forefront of Industry 4.0 and the AI industry.”

Celebrating the special moment with the graduates from the left front row: Ms Lenhle Khoza, Head: B-BBB and Transformation, Samsung, Prof. Muthoni Masinde, Dean: Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, Mr Simon Lee, CEO and President of Samsung Africa, Prof. Pamela Dube, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, His Excellency Dong-han Yang, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Prof. Alfred Ngowi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research Innovation and Engagement, Ms Kwena Mageza, Senior Director: Legal Services and Mr Bob Tladi, Chief Director: Department of Education.

Second row from left: Toni Maake, Brand and Corporate Marketing: Samsung, Keneiloe Serongoane, Senior PR and Communications Account Manager: Samsung, Mr Leolyn Jackson, Director: Centre for Global Engagement, Prof. Yali Woyessa, Assistant Dean: Research, Innovation and Engagement, Mr Moses Kau, Intergovernmental Relations and Special Programmes: Office of the Premier, Dr Adeyinka Akanbi, Head: Department and Senior Lecturer Department of Information Technology and Thabang Mokoka, Corporate Communications Director: Office of the Premier.