University rewarded staff members lauded for their contribution

BLOEMOFNTEIN – The Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, has recognised outstanding staff members for their exceptional performance and continued contributions across various academic and professional areas.

The institute honoured deserving candidates at the annual Vice-Chancellor Awards ceremony held on 24 October at the main campus in Bloemfontein.

These special awards are presented for excellence in the following categories: research; innovation and entrepreneurship; community engagement; and support services.

The ceremony is organised to coincide with events celebrating the teaching profession during October, commencing with World Teachers’ Day on 5 October.

Prof. Pamela Dube, vice-chancellor and principal of the CUT, stated that the awards underscored the CUT’s strategic commitment to fostering and celebrating excellence across the institution.

“These awards serve as a testament to the remarkable achievements of our staff in research, innovation, teaching, curriculum development, and community engagement,” Dube said about the acknowledgement given.

“Your dedication and hard work continue to inspire us all in striving to reach greater heights and to think beyond boundaries.”

Dube congratulated the recipients, highlighting their pivotal role in advancing the CUT’s strategic objectives.

In total, 16 staff members received awards:

■ teaching award − Tsholofelo Tshabadira;

■ research award − Dr Jeanne Coetzer, Dr Thywill Dzogbewu and Dr Chika Chukwuma;

■ community engagement award − Itumeleng Kgololo-Ngowi, Collette Maasdorp, Bridgette Mokgosi, Nomfundo Khoza and Dr Lentswe Mosweunyane;

■ innovation and entrepreneurship award −

Dr Lehlohonolo Monaheng;

■ support staff award − Mapaseka Gladys Muso, Malesela Matlawe, Emmanuel Zungu, and

Dr Reynell van der Ross; and

■ Two additional staff members, Hannelie van der Walt and Sidumo Aubrey Rikhotso, received special awards that align with the university’s core values. Van der Walt received the Living CUT Values accolade and Rikhotso earned the ethics ambassador award.