CUT’s 2018 Enrolment Process Proceeds Peacefully
Prospective students came in large numbers to CUT to begin a new journey in their academic lives and secure their spot in the university. The process proceeded peacefully and was administered in an efficient and well-ordered manner. First-year walk-ins were allowed to apply from 8 – 12 January; depending on the availability of space.
Prof. Henk de Jager, Vice-Chancellor and Principal said “The enrolment of students at universities is under a microscope following the announcement of free education. The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) welcomes the endeavour by the government to better support financially deserving and academically talented students and commends the government for this noble effort.
Despite a huge influx of prospective students on CUT campuses, the university remains calm. Management has put a number of extra measures in place, related to the student fees and financial aid (NSFAS) challenges experienced in 2017, to ensure that we provide a better and efficient service to our students, and regular engagements are taking place between Student Leaders and Management.
About 11 000 first-year applications for admission were received by the closing date of applications and late applications in 2017. More than 3 000 students have been admitted so far, the available space at both Welkom and Bloemfontein Campuses will accommodate at least four thousand first-years for admission in this academic year. The availability of space is based on the university’s enrolment plan, which facilitates funding the university receives from the Department of Higher Education and Training.”
Rethabile Maema from Bloemfontein registered for Tourism Management, she matriculated in 2016 at Kopanong High School and couldn’t study last year because of funds. “I am thankful to NSFAS for affording me the opportunity to study and pursue my academic goals. Many learners in the township who passed well are not studying because of their financial circumstances and lack of information; I was one of them. My sister advised me to consider NSFAS for funding and CUT as it is a good institution that produces quality graduates. I am very excited to be here to finally better my life.”
Currently, only 3 453 of first time entering undergraduate students registered which is 80.8% of the 4 275 set target. The registration process will continue for all senior students from 19 – 24 January 2018.
Images
1: First-year walk-in students eager to get a place and begin their 2018 academic year.
2: Rethabile Maema happy to receive her CUT student card.