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Celebrating academic excellence

The 2026 Autumn Graduation season of the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), set

started on Thursday 19 March in the Multipurpose Hall at the Welkom campus and concluded on Thursday 26 March at the Boet Troskie Hall at the Bloemfontein campus.

During this season, the CUT awarded a remarkable 3 970 degrees, diplomas, and certificates, with 3 248 of those from the Bloemfontein campus and 722 from the Welkom Campus.

Among these achievements are 28 doctoral degrees and 65 master’s degrees.

As she was addressing the newly capped graduates, Prof. Pamela Dube, vice-chancellor and

principal of the CUT, highlighted that these numbers are not merely statistics.

They represent the number of transformed lives, the number of families that have been uplifted, and futures that have been reimagined. All made possible with a proactive approach to transformative education.

“Each of these graduates represents courage, perseverance, and the triumph of possibility over limitation.

“Their success affirms that when barriers are removed and support systems are strengthened, excellence can flourish in every individual.

“As a university, we are immensely proud of this milestone, which reflects not only personal victories but also institutional progress toward equity, dignity, and social justice.

“To each graduate: your qualification was earned through discipline, resilience, and sacrifice.

“Congratulations. You have made your families, your communities, and your university immensely proud,” said Dube to the crowd.

She added that the graduates join a powerful global community of the CUT alumni.

“Wherever life takes you, you remain ambassadors of this institution.

“Carry the CUT name with integrity. Open doors for those who will follow. Return to mentor, collaborate, and contribute.

“Your success is our success, and our future is strengthened by your continued engagement.

“As you embark on this new chapter, may you carry with you a deep understanding of the responsibility you bear to contribute to your families, the growth of your communities, the prosperity of our nation, and the advancement of humanity,” she concluded.

‘Always be ready to lead, take a risk’

“The world that we're in now is a world of continuous learning. So, the fact that you're becoming graduates today does not mean that it's the end of learning. You must continue to learn. ”

These are the words of the newly capped recipient of an honorary doctorate by the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), Dr Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa.

The CUT conferred the degree of honorary doctorate in Business Administration in the Faculty of Management Sciences to the South African chief executive officer (CEO), group executive director, humanitarian and philanthropist.

Taking a walk down memory lane, she described how her parents had instilled the value of education in her from a young age.

“They did not come from privilege, but pursued their own educational dreams with the relentless hunger that I see echoed in the students on this very campus,” she said.

Whilst her career has taken her across the world, Mahanyele-Dabengwa acknowledges that every single door that has

opened for her was first unlocked by education.

“And here's what I know consistently: The world is changing at a pace that makes their head spin. Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries.

“The geopolitical order that structured world affairs for decades is shifting every day.

“And so, the question that keeps me awake at night is not whether South Africa can compete in this world. It is whether we are sufficiently preparing our young people to lead it.

“This is why this institution, the Central University of Technology, matters so profoundly. Your motto, ‘Thinking Beyond,’ is not merely a slogan.”

Mahanyele-Dabengwa added that it was a strategy for a nation that could not afford to think small.

“When I look at what is being built here, your Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing, your research into smart cities, your work on food security and sustainable agriculture, I see an institution that understands something essential.

“Universities that will matter, or that matter now in the 21st century, are not the ones with the grandest buildings or the

of her honorary doctorate in Business Administration.

longest history.

“This is precisely why an institution such as the Central University of Technology is not a footnote in South Africa's higher education history; it must become one of the protagonists.”

Addressing her fellow graduates, she had a few words of encouragement.

“You are very fortunate to be in a university with this many female deans. It's outstanding.

“Do not wait for permission

to lead and do not wait for someone to tell you that you are ready.

“Always be ready.

“When someone offers you an opportunity and I'm speaking particularly to the women don't start going through your CV and thinking, ‘I'm not really qualified enough.’ Take the risk and learn,” Mahanyele-Dabengwa concluded. The

Development programmes help 100 to graduate

On 27 June 2025, the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), and the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality (MMM)formalised a strategic partnership through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening local governance and enhancing service delivery.

This collaboration focuses on the delivery of credit-bearing short learning programmes through the CUT's Department of Government Management.

The programmes were developed in response to identified skills gaps within local government, the broader public sector, and state-owned entities.

Four targeted programmes were introduced: Supervisory, Councillor, Middle, and Executive Management Development.

These programmes were designed to equip councillors and municipal officials with practical expertise in governance, accountability, legal frameworks, public participation, project management, financial management, and ethics.

The first cohort, launched in

2025, saw 100 participants from the MMM successfully enrol, complete their studies, and graduate at the 2026 Bloemfontein Autumn graduation

ceremony. Municipal officials participated in the Supervisory Management Development Programme (SMDP), while councillors completed the Mu-

nicipal Councillor Development Training (MCDT).

Building on this success, a second cohort focusing on Middle and Executive Management

Development will commence in April and run over a six-month period, further strengthening leadership capacity within the municipality.

“CUT's academic programmes prioritise entrepreneurial education and social and technological innovations. This sets the university apart from traditional studies and allows for significant advancements in research, teaching and learning.”

Di erently-gifted, just as capable

A powerful celebration of courage and resilience ensued as students with disabilities rose above challenges to claim their success at the CUT Autumn Graduation.

Success is measured not only by qualifications, but by the journeys that shape them. This Autumn Graduation at the Welkom campus carried a special kind of pride and emotion, as five students with disabilities stood among the 722 graduates, each one representing a story of courage, resilience, and subtle determination.

Among them is Linah Maboya, a partially blind graduate who earned her bachelor of Education in Languages. Her journey is not just one of academic achievement, but of finding her voice in the face of uncertainty.

When she first arrived at university, she struggled to navigate her studies while managing her disability, unsure of where to turn or what support was available. “At first, it was very hard because I didn’t fully understand what support was available for my disability,” she recalls. “Everything changed the moment I chose to speak

up.”

After opening up to one of her lecturers, Linah was referred to the Disability Unit, a specialised support service dedicated to ensuring equal access, inclusion, and academic success for staff and students with disabilities. “That single step marked a turning point in my journey,” she said. With the right support, what once felt impossible slowly became achievable. Reading, writing, and completing assessments within strict time limits no longer felt like insurmountable barriers. “Before discovering the unit, it was difficult for

me to finish on time when writing, but the support I received really helped,” she shares.

Today, Linah stands tall not only as a graduate, but as a beacon of hope to many. “I’m hoping to find a job, and I want to encourage others who are living with disabilities like me to stand up for themselves,” she says with quiet confidence. Her story is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the most important step is simply asking for help and believing that you deserve it.

She is not alone in this triumph. Karabo Morapedi, who graduated with an advanced

diploma in Applied Management, Mothibedi Lindiwe, who completed a postgraduate diploma in Human Resource Management, and Ntokozo Ntuli, who earned a diploma in Language Practice and Media Studies, are among those who have also walked this path with courage and determination.

Another graduate who shared her journey is Ntokozo Ntuli who lives with dysgraphia. She describes her journey at the CUT as both fulfilling and deeply rewarding. What once could have been a limitation became a story of growth, supported by a community that believed in her potential. She speaks with gratitude

about the Disability Unit’s role, crediting the unit for helping her navigate her academic journey with confidence.

Now, as a graduate, she looks ahead with hope and purpose, eager to continue her studies while exploring new opportunities.

Together, these graduates embody something far greater than academic success. They remind us that behind every qualification is a story of perseverance, behind every challenge lies the possibility of growth, and that with the right support, no barrier is too great to overcome. Proof that every dream, no matter how distant it may seem, is always within reach.

Milestone marked with impact beyond lectures

In a quiet but powerful testament to dedication, growth, and intellectual ambition, the Language Development and Support Unit (LDSU) celebrates a milestone that speaks not only to individual achievement, but to collective transformation.

Five staff members (Amogelang Thagane, Boitumelo Phooko, Matsooana Mokoena, Palesa Pheello, and Kekeletso Matuka) have reached a defining academic moment, earning qualifications that now ripple outward into the very fabric of the department’s mission: advancing multilingualism, strengthening academic literacy, and widening epistemic access for all students. But behind the certificates lies a story of resilience, late nights, and unsung victories.

For many of the graduates, the journey began with a steep climb into the demanding terrain of higher learning.

Thagane recalls the early days of postgraduate studies as particularly daunting. Adjusting to the intensity and expectations required a complete shift in mindset. Yet,

achievements lies a less visible struggle: the balancing act between academic demands and professional responsibilities.

For some, like Matuka, this meant managing full-time employment while pursuing postgraduate studies, an already complex task made even more demanding by international academic commitments. It required precision, discipline, and an ability to adapt under pressure.

it is only in name. For these individuals, it is a beginning that stretches into ambitions that align seamlessly with the LDSU’s broader vision. There is a shared understanding that qualifications are not final destinations, but foundations.

persistence bore fruit in an unexpected way: emerging as the top-performing postgraduate language student. It was a moment that turned doubt into confidence, a reminder that growth often hides inside discomfort.

Similarly, Matuka’s journey was defined by consistency and discipline, earning a place on the Dean’s List for two consecutive years. Her achievement reflects not just academic strength, but sustained excellence over time.

For others, the turning point came through experience be-

yond the lecture hall. Mokoena traces her defining moment back to her Work Integrated Learning (WIL) placement within the very unit she now contributes to. It was there, in the practical application of theory, that a deeper purpose emerged, a passion for advocating the advancement of indigenous languages.

Pheello echoes this sentiment, pointing to language-related events as pivotal moments where theory met reality, offering a glimpse into the professional world and the possibilities it holds. Behind these

Mokoena reflects on the difficulty of juggling work and studies yet recognises the resilience it cultivates. The grind, though taxing, forged a stronger sense of discipline.

Support systems became essential anchors throughout this period. From lecturers who offered guidance and flexibility, to mentors and departmental leaders who championed academic priorities, the graduates were not alone in their journey. For Pheello, support extended beyond the institution, rooted deeply in family encouragement and the quiet strength of personal sacrifice.

If graduation marks an end,

Thagane looks toward growth within the profession, viewing her role in the unit as a space to refine expertise and build meaningful collaborations. Matuka aspires to contribute to academia itself, driving multilingual practices forward within higher education.

Mokoena’s vision is grounded in advocacy—using her knowledge and experience to push for the recognition and use of indigenous languages in academic spaces. Meanwhile, Pheello takes a pragmatic approach, recognising the competitive landscape and choosing to continue her studies to remain adaptable and prepared. While the individual stories are compelling, their collective impact is where the true significance lies. The addition of these qualifications strengthens the LDSU in tangible ways.

“Paralympian,

Health sector gains from alliance

The Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences (FHES) proudly celebrates the graduation of nine members of the South African Military Health Services (SAMHS), who have successfully completed a higher certificate in the Dental Assisting course.

This marks another significant milestone in the longstanding partnership between the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) and the SAMHS, committed to advancing skills development and professional training.

Through this programme, participants are equipped with essential theoretical knowledge and hands-on competencies. Their success reflects the impact of purposeful training and the value of investing in human capital to support national health priorities.

This stands as a testament to the faculty’s commitment to fostering impactful partnerships and contributing to national development.

Shared journey, dual success

of Engineering Technology in Mechanical Engineering graduates in the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology at the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT).

Their journey is a powerful reflection of both the intensity of engineering studies and the unique strength of sharing that experience with someone.

From the very beginning, their path was marked by challenge. The transition into university proved demanding particularly in their first year which required resilience, discipline and the ability to adapt to a rigorous academic environment. Yet, what could have been overwhelming became manageable through their shared determination and constant support for one another.

As twins, their bond extended beyond family ties into a true academic partnership. They studied the same modules, attended the same lectures and approached every challenge as a team. When one felt discouraged, the other provided

John and Johannes Meyer are among the Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Mechanical Engineering graduates at the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology.

motivation. When concepts became di cult, they worked through them together.

“We kept encouraging each other to stay committed and push through,” Johannes reflects. Their identical appearance became a familiar and often amusing feature on campus, occasionally leaving lecturers momentarily confused. Beyond the light-hearted moments, however, this resemblance symbolised something deeper: Two individuals moving in sync, sharing not only goals, but also the determination to achieve them side

by side. Their story is one of unity, perseverance and shared purpose.

As the CUT continues to produce graduates equipped with strong technical and problem-solving skills, the Meyer twins stand out as an example of how collaboration and mutual support can enhance academic success.

Their achievement marks more than the completion of a qualification. It represents a journey undertaken together, a testament to brotherhood, and a reminder that success is often made stronger when it is shared.

Success, sport hand-in-hand

Various athletes of the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), took to the stage as part of the 3 248 graduates at the 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremonies on the Bloemfontein campus.

Among them were Varsity Cup rugby captain Tokelo Ntaopane, along with volleyball players Seruwe Kenneth Mofokeng and Koena Mosa Ramela, who celebrated this milestone alongside their families.

Ntaopane graduated with a Bachelor

of Education in Technology degree and is pursuing his honours in Education Management. Mofokeng and Ramela achieved qualifications in Information Technology, cum laude.

All three athletes reflected on the vital role sports had played in their academic journeys. They noted how it sharpened their focus, refreshed their minds, enhanced concentration; in addition to instilling essential skills such as careful planning, effective time management and self-discipline.

Reaping the benefits of hard work

The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), continues to develop graduates who contribute meaningfully to priority areas such as STEM education.

Among them are Darlington Sithole and Kamogelo Matlonya, both of whom graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching, specialising in Mathematics.

Within the Faculty of Humanities, the development of Mathematics educators forms part of the CUT’s broader strategy to strengthen STEM education and address critical skills shortages in schools. By equipping future teachers with strong subject knowledge and practical teaching methodologies, the university plays a vital role in improving learning outcomes and advancing national development priorities.

For Sithole, success was rooted in consistency from the very beginning.

“It’s an emotional but fulfilling moment, because everything I worked hard for has been recognised,” he said.

“This qualification required me to hit the ground running from my first year. Attending classes every day and submitting assignments on time was essential.”

Sithole made use of diverse learning resources, including textbooks, group discussions and online tools to deepen his understanding. His passion for Mathematics, combined with prior experience

assisting learners, inspired him to pursue a career in teaching.

Matlonya attributes her achievement to commitment, discipline and perseverance.

“I feel so excited, because my dream has come true. All those sleepless nights paid o .”

Her success was driven by consistent daily practice, structured study routines, and a willingness to seek help when needed.

“You have to solve problems every day and make sure you fully understand each question.”

Their accomplishments highlight the importance of dedication and e ective study strategies, while reinforcing the CUT’s role in preparing future educators who will contribute to improving Mathematics education.

“CUT’s ambitious goal is to support STEM education and achieve a 50 percent student intake by 2030 in this national priority area, which South Africa has identified as a critical skills shortage.”

Power and purpose well balanced

The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), proudly celebrates the president of the Student Representative Coucil (SRC) at its Bloemfontein campus, Liyabona Nkatshase, on the successful completion of his postgraduate qualification in Education, an achievement shaped by academic dedication, resilience, servant leadership, and an unwavering sense of responsibility.

Raised in the dusty streets of Ezibeleni in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, Liyabona’s journey is deeply personal and profoundly transformative. He shares: “This moment is not just about completing a qualification, but about the journey, the sacrifices, and the growth that came with it.”

Like many, he encountered doubt, pressure, and uncertainty. However, what distinguished his experience

leadership.

As the SRC president, he carried not only his own as-

section of student needs and institutional processes, often navigating complex challenges while striving to ensure that no student voice went unheard. This role demanded emotional intelligence, courage, and the ability to make difficult decisions under pressure.

Balancing academic commitments with the demands of leadership proved to be one of the most defining challenges of his journey. “Students look up

to you, and sometimes you have to carry issues that are bigger than yourself,” he reflects. His academic journey enriched his leadership perspective, while his leadership experiences gave deeper meaning to his studies. Together, they shaped a holistic path of growth and impact.

Importantly, Liyabona came to understand that his roles as a student and as a leader were not separate but deeply interconnected. Today, as he

advances with his Honours degree in Education Management, Liyabona carries more than an academic qualification. He embodies the essence of student leadership, resilience, purpose driven, and commitment to transformation. His journey stands as a powerful reminder that true leadership is not defined by position, but by the courage to serve, the strength to persevere, and the vision to uplift others.

“Current SRC President, Liyabona Nkatshase leads by example, graduating with Postgraduate certificate in Education.”

Graduate’s perspective 2026 autumn graduations

Obstacles conquered

A young man who once doubted he would even graduate after being rejected over a single percentage point, who rerouted through TVET and came back sharper, now stands with not just a postgraduate qualification, but is pursuing a master’s degree.

In the heart of the Ratau location in Thabanchu, Gosiame Lebisa stands as living proof that the road to purpose is rarely straight. Once a young man who doubted he would ever wear a graduation gown, he set his sights on the military, only to be turned away, forcing him to rewrite his story from scratch.

Now, as he continues his journey toward a master’s degree in Entrepreneurial Management, his success echoes far beyond himself, carrying the hopes of a community, inspiring unseen eyes and proving that sometimes the long way is the path that shapes you.

Bloemfontein campus after his graduation ceremony.

Success makes noise

Not every journey announces its battles out loud, and for Relebohile Ngake, the story lives in the quiet persistence between the highs and lows.

Earning a postgraduate diploma in Marketing Management from the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), his path was anything but smooth; shaped by motion, long days on his feet, and the kind of resilience that does not always need explaining.

Rather than dwell on the weight of the struggle, he carried forward a calm, focused ambition with his eyes set on the future, whether that means stepping into a master’s program, building new skills, or chasing creative energy through media aspirations. It is a story not of noise, but of endurance, a reminder that sometimes the strongest journeys are the ones that speak softly yet move relentlessly forward.

Challenges teach lessons

From the Western Cape to unfamiliar territory in the Free State, Marlon Veldkornet’s journey began with uncertainty, long days of adjustment and learning to find balance in a place that did not yet feel like home.

His first year tested him, but within that discomfort, something steady began to form.

“From the safety of campus life to the independence beyond it, each year carved out a stronger, more confident version of myself,” Marlon stated.

Now armed with an advanced diploma in Design Technology, an internship and a full job prospect awaiting, Veldkornet’s path splits into possibility his story is one of quiet evolution.

Moving forward a winning strategy

For Boipelo Mateza, a Somatology graduate, stepping into the spotlight was not about being perfect.

It was about showing up when the opportunity presents itself.

Born and raised in the Free State, this moment marked a first: a new space, new energy, and the courage it takes to be seen.

Mateza’s experience came with a combination of nerves and excitement in equal measure, a mix that danced somewhere between uncertainty and thrill. And while the challenges in her academic journey were not heavy or too overwhelming, just the careful balance of walking in heels carried their own lesson in maintaing confidence and composure.

“I have no grand speech about the future, no overcomplicated plan, just a simple, steady intention to continue,” uttered Mateza.

She highlighted that sometimes real growth is just being able to keep moving forward.

Kabelo Makhetha at the CUT Alumni Court following his graduation ceremony on 24 March, after overcoming many personal obstacles.

Resilience forged in fire

For Kabelo Makhetha from Bloemfontein, the journey was not defined by ease but by intention a steady commitment to staying focused, aligned, and moving forward even when the road tested him. Kabelo’s time at CUT, an institution he proudly calls “a cut above the rest,” became more than just an academic experience, it became a foundation. Through moments that challenged him and lessons that sharpened him, he gained not just knowledge, but direction. Now, with his qualification in hand, his vision stretches beyond the classroom and looks toward further studies and, more importantly, toward scaling his business and carving out his place in the world.

His story is one of discipline and patience, where progress is not rushed but earned, with a mind fixed firmly on growth.

Betterment never stops

For Palesa Mosebo from Botshabelo, graduation day arrived not just as a milestone but as a moment suspended between memory and becoming.

With an advanced diploma in Monitoring and Evaluation in hand, she walked through a campus that felt both familiar and newly distant stating that each step echoed the journey that brought her there. What began as anticipation unfolded into something deeper, an overwhelming blend of pride, reflection, and quiet realisation that a chapter was closing.

Every challenge she faced and every moment of doubt had shaped her into the person standing at that threshold. However, this is not an ending.

Now pursuing postgraduate studies in Entrepreneurial Management, her story is proof that growth has no finish line it simply learns how to begin again.

Success unfolds on its own timeline

For Rethabile Motlhalane from Kimberley the journey did not begin with open doors, it began with waiting.

Financial setbacks stood in the way of her studies, forcing her into a space where progress was not guaranteed, only hoped for. But while circumstances paused her access, they never paused her discipline.

Motlhalane stayed ready. She continued with her studying, preparing and holding the line, until her moment finally arrived.

Then, when it did, she stepped through with purpose. She earned an advanced diploma in Monitoring and Evaluation not just through intellect, but through resilience.

It was along the way, within the walls of the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) o ce, that her path sharpened, revealing a passion for understanding and improving how projects and programmes perform.

Now, with her eyes set on becoming a specialist in the field, her story stands as proof that sometimes success is not about speed, but about staying ready long enough for your moment to find you.

“The 2026 Autumn graduation season saw CUT confer 28 doctoral degrees and 65 master’s degrees.”

Paving the way: Lebohang Lebatla makes history as first graduate in her family

As graduates gather to mark this important milestone, the theme “Sailing into a New Horizon” comes vividly to life, symbolising a journey shaped by learning, growth, resilience, and hope. The ceremony reflects not only academic achievement, but also a powerful transition as students step forward as confident individuals, ready to navigate new paths beyond the institution and into the world.

Among the graduates, Lebohang Lebatla of the Faculty of Humanities, who received her bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (Languages) qualification, stands out as she reached a historic milestone for her family.

As the first person in her family to obtain a university qualification, her achievement carries weight far beyond personal success, it represents a breakthrough moment that reshapes her family’s story and inspires future generations.

For Lebohang, the journey has been one of perseverance, growth, and unwavering support. Her time at CUT has provided her with more than just academic knowledge; it has o ered her guidance, encouragement, and a nurturing environment that has shaped both her intellect and her character. Reflecting on her

(Lebohang’s mother). The proud parents celebrate a special family milestone at the CUT 2026 Autumn Graduation.

journey since 2021, she speaks with gratitude about the opportunities she has received and the people who have walked alongside her, helping her become the person she is today.

At the heart of Lebohang’s success is her father, Botha Lebatla, a dedicated employee at CUT whose pride and joy are deeply felt in this moment. Watching his daughter graduate is the fulfilment of a long-held dream. With emotion in his voice, he shares: “This is a deeply emotional and significant moment for me. It has always been my dream to see my daughter graduate, and today that dream has come true.

“I am so proud to see her fulfilling her dream of becoming a teacher. I am also proud because she is the family’s first graduate. I am truly

grateful to my employer for the employee dependent study support benefit, which helped make this dream possible.”

His appreciation speaks not only to his daughter’s achievement but also to the support systems that made it possible, reminding us that behind every graduate is a network of belief, sacrifice and opportunity

Lebohang, too, reflects on this moment with deep emotion and gratitude.

“Graduating is a huge achievement for my family, especially my father, who is happier than anyone,” she shares.

“He is so proud of me and has assured me many times.”

Her words beautifully capture the essence of this milestone.

From campus love to lifelong commitment and success

Malehlohonolo Malete and Thulo Abang’s story is more than a celebration of academic success. It is a heartfelt journey of love, resilience, and shared purpose that blossomed within the halls of the Central University of Technology, Free State (Welkom Campus).

Their paths first crossed in 2019 as first-year students, each pursuing di erent dreams yet unknowingly walking toward a shared future. Thulo was studying for a diploma in Human Resource Management, while Malehlohonolo was enrolled in Cost and Management Accounting. What began as a simple connection between classmates grew into something deeper, a bond rooted in kindness, encouragement, and an unspoken promise to stand by one another through every season. As the years unfolded, their love matured alongside their ambitions. Late nights of studying turned into moments of reassurance. Challenges became opportunities to lean on each other. Malehlohonolo faced financial di culties that forced her to pause her studies, a moment that could have dimmed her dreams. Yet with Thulo by her side, reminding her of her strength and potential, she found the courage to return and continue her journey.

Their relationship was not only

she continues to reach higher as she pursues a master’s degree in Entrepreneurship. Each qualification tells a story not only of hard work but of a heart that refused to give up.

Triumph over adversity: The inspiring story of Mohapi Malefetsane

For Mohapi Malefetsane, graduating is more than an academic milestone. It is a powerful testament to resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering determination.

After completing matric in 2017, his journey to higher education was anything but straightforward. For nearly three years, he faced repeated challenges in securing admission.

When he was finally accepted at the CUT Welkom Campus in 2021, he carried not only relief, but a deep appreciation for the opportunity he had fought so hard to earn.

“Waiting for that opportunity was not easy,” he reflects, “but it taught me patience and made me value my chance to study even more.”

Yet gaining admission was only the beginning.

His academic journey was soon disrupted by the far-reaching e ects of the Covid-19 pandemic and student protests, which led to missed assessments and failure in his first semester of second year.

For many, this might have marked the end, but for Mohapi, it became a turning point.

In 2023, determined not to let setbacks define his future, he submitted an academic appeal. When it was approved, it reignited his hope and gave him a second chance

Against all odds, Mohapi Malefetsane triumphs over financial hardship to graduate with an advanced diploma in Human Resource Management at the CUT 2026 Autumn Graduation.

to prove himself. He seized it with both hands.

The greatest challenge, however, came in the form of financial hardship.

In 2024, after moving into an accredited student accommodation, his funding was first delayed and then frozen due to verification processes.

With his accommodation left

unpaid, uncertainty loomed over his daily life. The pressure was immense, and the risk of losing everything he had worked for became very real.

Still, he refused to give up.

“Even when things were uncertain, especially with funding and accommodation, I stayed committed to finishing what I started,” he says.

“It was not easy, but I kept going because I knew why I had begun this journey.”

Through every setback, Mohapi found strength in his family, especially his mother and paternal relatives, whose unwavering support carried him through moments of doubt. Their belief in him became his anchor when everything else felt unstable.

Today, Mohapi stands victorious, graduating with an advanced diploma in Human Resource Management, he closes one chapter of struggle and opens another filled with promise. Now pursuing postgraduate studies, he continues to build on a journey defined not by obstacles, but by the courage to overcome them.

His story is a reminder that resilience is not the absence of hardship, but the decision to rise above it again and again until victory is achieved.

CUT and Senqu partnership set to elevate municipal capacity where it matters most

Malete and Thulo Abang said their love matured alongside their ambitions.

defined by academic pursuits but also by life’s most beautiful milestones.

In 2022, they welcomed their son, a living symbol of their love and perseverance. Becoming parents deepened their sense of responsibility and strengthened their commitment to building a future together. In 2023, they sealed their bond in marriage, transforming years of companionship into a lifelong promise.

Today, Malehlohonolo stands as a testament to perseverance and passion. With a diploma in Cost and Management Accounting, a postgraduate certificate in Education, and an honours degree in Education,

Thulo, now working at the university as an HR Assistant, has also carved his own path of achievement, completing his diploma and postgraduate diploma in Human Resource Management while pursuing his master’s degree. Yet among his proudest moments is witnessing his wife’s success. He speaks of her with admiration, knowing every sacrifice and every silent battle she overcame.

Together, they have built more than careers. They have built a life grounded in love, patience, and unwavering belief in each other. Their journey reminds us that success is often nurtured in partnership, where dreams are shared, burdens are carried together, and victories are celebrated as one.

For Malehlohonolo and Thulo, graduation is not just an academic milestone. It is a reflection of a love that endured trials, grew stronger with time, and ultimately bore beautiful fruit. It is a promise that as they step into the future, they will continue to rise not alone, but hand in hand, guided by the same love that first brought them together.

The Faculty of Management Sciences celebrated hundreds of graduates, including working professionals from across South Africa’s economy, representing key partners in local government and industry. These collaborations continue to position the CUT as a university of choice for career-focused, impact-driven education.

Among the standout graduates were Velile Victor Stokhwe, executive mayor, and Ruth Nogoli Gwabini, speaker of the Senqu Local Municipality, both earning a postgraduate diploma in Public Management.

Their achievements reflect the strength of a growing partnership between the CUT and local government to build leadership capacity where it matters most. For Mayor Stokhwe, returning to the classroom was a deliberate investment in better governance and service delivery.

“I had to come here to learn something new so that I can make a much bigger contribution in developing the institution that I’m leading,” he says.

With existing qualifications in Public Administration and Monitoring and Evaluation, he turned to the CUT to deepen his impact. His journey forms part of a broader municipal vision. Through its partnership with the CUT, the Senqu Local

Ruth Nogoli Gwabini and Velile Victor Stokhwe, respective speaker and executive mayor of the Senqu Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape, both earned a postgraduate diploma in Public Management.

Municipality has enrolled more than 10 councillors in further studies, an intentional move to strengthen both administration and oversight.

“That is part of our vision to capacitate not only the administration, but also the oversight bodies to ensure that the municipality is fully functional,” Stokhwe explains.

He further a rms the CUT’s role as a forward-looking institution: “For me, it’s a university of choice. It is very young and led by energetic academics and leaders. What I like most is that they focus on solving

practical issues a ecting our people, they don’t exist on the periphery.”

This alignment with real-world challenges reinforces the CUT’s position as a partner in progress for municipalities seeking innovation and responsiveness. Similarly, Speaker Gwabini’s journey reflects resilience and purpose. Balancing leadership responsibilities, family life, and caregiving, she remained committed to completing her qualification.

“It was so strenuous, I had to balance family matters, work, and community responsibilities at the same time,” she shared.

Despite the challenges, she remained focused on the bigger picture, strengthening governance through education.

“This programme will help me ensure that the policies in our municipality are aligned with the Constitution of South Africa.” Together, their stories highlight the power of partnership between the CUT and local government where education meets practice to build capable, ethical, and responsive leadership. As the CUT continues to position itself as a university of the future, these collaborations demonstrate how higher education can drive meaningful change, strengthen institutions, and empower communities.

“The 2026 Autumn Graduations are a step closer to CUT’s Vision 2030, which aims to be a leading University of Technology that changes lives, transforms society, and shapes the future.”

Moabi Kompi, Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology: “Development of a framework for assessing smart city readiness in South African municipalities: A case study of Matjhabeng Municipality.”

Celebrating Autumn Doctoral graduates

Anele Nkoyi: Doctor of Philosophy in Management Sciences (Marketing Management): “Exploiting relationship marketing to augment electronic banking continuance usage: A moderated mediation study in a rural context.”

Rosemary Abayase, Doctor of Philosophy in Management Sciences (Hospitality Business Management): “Innovation adoption, adopter characteristics, and the performance of small-scale hospitality business in Ghana: a theory of planned behaviour perspective”

Khanyisa Shirinda, Doctor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering: “Optimal energy management for a grid-connected pumped hydro-battery hybrid storage system supplied by renewable energy.”

Musawenkosi Msizi Fairhope Henema, Doctor of Health Sciences in Clinical Technology: “Multimodality profiling of pulmonary hypertension in a group of South African patients with congenital heart disease.”

Gerald Kojo Ahorbo, Doctor of Philosophy in Management Sciences (Business Management): “Entrepreneurial competency and the performance outcomes of small manufacturing firm’s manufacturing capability, strategic mode and strategy adoption.”

Perpetual Zaazie, Doctor of Philosophy in Management Sciences (Hospitality Business Management): “Jay-customer behaviour and the customer-orientated behaviour of front-line workers: a mediated moderation model for the Ghanaian hospitality industry.”

Pieter Stefanus Veldtsman, Doctor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering: “Development of an artificial intelligence deep neural network for the identification of individual animals.”

Victoria Mahlape Mokone, Doctor of Education: “Self-e cacy expectations of novice teachers: an induction support framework for improved teaching performance.”

Onkabetse Levy Motsumi, Doctor of Philosophy in Management Sciences (Public Sector Management): “The impact of financial accountability on good governance and service delivery e ciency in selected provincial departments and municipalities in the Northern Cape Province.”

Mary Abra Amenuku, Doctor of Philosophy in Management Sciences (Finance): “Socio-cultural orientation, financial disposition and the retirement planning attitude of self-employed informal sector workers in Ghana: Evidence from street hawkers in the Accra Metropolis”

Pontso Letlotlo Joyce Letuka, Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Health: “Assessment of food safety of street vended foods and the nutrient knowledge of street food vendors within the Mangaung Metro Municipality, Free State, South Africa.”

Vincente Antonio Halle, Education: “Factors influencing the implementation of integrated e-learning and teaching in higher education: A multi-case study.”

Julian Chizoba Nwodo, Doctor of Engineering in Civil Engineering: “Re-engineering of existing wastewater stabilisation ponds for improved contaminant removal.”

Jacob Adebayo Adedeji, Doctor of ENGINEERING IN CIVIL ENGINEERING “Finite element approach for low volume roads using dynamic cone penetrometer results”

Mbongeni, Ngwenya, Philosophy in Environmental Health: “Development of eco-friendly bio-nanocomposites based on polycaprolactone, poly (lactic acid) and their blends with nanocellulose extracted from Saccharum o cinarum for advanced applications.”

Hayford Adjei, Doctor of Philosophy in Management Sciences (Business Management): “Gold mining, corporate social responsibility and the sustainable well-being of host communities in the Ahafo Region, Ghana.”

in smart manufacturing.”

Eminsang Conduah,

Moleboheng Emily Binyane-Motseki, Doctor of Health Sciences in Biomedical Technology: “Antifungal activity and toxicity assessment of traditional medicinal plants commonly used in the treatment of respiratory diseases in South Africa.”

Mercy Boadi, Doctor of Philosophy in Management Sciences (Hospitality Business Management): “The impacts of abusive customer behaviour and perceived supervisor support on frontline hotel employee’s alienation and customer-orientated behaviour in Ghana.”

“During the 2026 Autumn graduation ceremonies, CUT awarded a remarkable 3,970 degrees, diplomas, and certificates.”