CUT Alumni

CUT Alumnus pursues PhD in Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University

The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), proudly celebrates the remarkable achievement of alumnus Munashe Ignatius Chibinyani, who is currently pursuing a PhD in Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University in the United States.

His achievement reflects more than personal success. It demonstrates the role universities such as CUT play in cultivating researchers who are equipped to contribute to global scientific advancement while remaining committed to addressing real-world challenges.

Originally from Botswana, Munashe Ignatius Chibinyani completed his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Botswana before joining the CUT, where he pursued a Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from 2021 to 2025. During this period, he immersed himself in advanced research in additive manufacturing and advanced structures, building a strong foundation in engineering innovation, scientific inquiry and applied problem-solving. His postgraduate journey at CUT not only refined his technical expertise but also strengthened his research capability, enabling him to contribute to internationally published scholarly work and compete at the highest levels of academia.

“Becoming the first graduate in my family was more than a personal achievement, it was the fulfilment of a dream shared by those who had sacrificed so much for my future. After completing my master's degree at CUT, family responsibilities required me to temporarily step away from academia. I accepted a position as an insurance loss adjuster to help provide financial stability for my family.”

Today, his doctoral research at Stanford University focuses on intelligent structures and advanced materials with applications in aerospace, robotics and medicine-fields that are shaping the future of engineering and technology. Beyond advancing scientific knowledge, he hopes to create research collaborations and opportunities for talented students from Botswana and other resource-constrained communities, ensuring that future generations have greater access to world-class research environments.

Sharing the significance of this milestone, he highlighted that, "although I did not announce my admission when it happened, starting my PhD at Stanford has been one of the most meaningful milestones of my life. It represents years of sacrifice, perseverance, faith and support from so many people." Reflecting on the path that brought him to Stanford, he added, "from the University of Botswana, to CUT and now to Stanford University, this journey has taught me that our starting point does not have to define our destination."

Read more:
https://www.cut.ac.za/news/cut-alumnus-pursues-phd-in-mechanical-engineering-at-stanford-university

NRF Funding Fraud Awareness | Providing false information to qualify for NRF funding is a form of funding fraud.

This includes providing false or incorrect information, or submitting falsified or altered supporting documents to qualify for funding.

Honest and accurate information helps ensure funding reaches those who qualify.

Employment opportunity for qualifying CUT Alumni/Professionals.

Office Coordinator: Registrar Operations

The Registrar’s Office at the Central University of Technology is looking for a dedicated and dynamic professional to join the team on an 11-month contract (September 2026 – July 2027) at the Bloemfontein Campus.

For more information, see the advert below:

merSETA Social has an employment opportunity for those who qualify

We’re Hiring!

Vacancyhttps://www.merseta.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/merSETA_Client-Liaison-Administrator_2026.pdf

Application form:https://merseta.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/merSETA_Job-Application-Form.pdf

CUT, FS Alumni Lejweleputswa Chapter
CUT Hotel School Alumni

CUT Invites Student Innovators to Apply for AGGP Move-to-Market Pilot Opportunity

CUT is calling on student entrepreneurs and innovators with market-ready potential to participate in a curated Move-to-Market pilot linked to the Allan & Gill Gray Philanthropies (AGGP), aimed at supporting the transition from innovation to commercial opportunity.

Whether you have built a prototype, developed an MVP, launched a digital platform, designed a product, or created an innovative service, the CUT / AGGP Move-to-Market Pilot Opportunity is designed to help bridge the gap between innovation and commercialisation.

Through the CUT / AGGP Move-to-Market Pilot Opportunity, selected projects may receive support to advance towards customer validation, pilot testing, first users, first customers, early revenue generation, and market entry.

Scan the QR code or complete the intake form to submit your project.

Fill out the form on the link below:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ScFAubeRz0u6LA242BcZbUbuAoZb34JBu5QGxNS9fTVURDVDQ1FOTEpVR0dETU9KWEhWTU83MDZQSS4u

Exciting Opportunity for CUT Alumni – Industrial Psychology Internship (2027):

The Central University of Technology, Free State, is inviting applications for a 12-month Industrial Psychology Internship based at the Bloemfontein Campus.

This is a fantastic opportunity for emerging professionals to gain practical, supervised experience aligned with HPCSA requirements and to build a solid foundation in Industrial Psychology.

Careers, Central University of Technology, Free State

Study abroad opportunity circulated on behalf of the CUT Centre for Global Engagement.

CUT Center for Global Engagement - International Office

Dr Kompi reflects on his nGAP doctoral journey

Dr Moabi Saul Kompi’s doctoral journey stands as a testament to perseverance and unwavering dedication to academic excellence. As an nGAP Lecturer under Phase 2 and a member of the programme’s inaugural cohort since its inception in 2016–2017, his accomplishment marks not only personal success but also the fulfilment of a long-term vision shaped by dedication and sacrifice.

The New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP) is a prestigious programme under the Department of Higher Education and Training (the Department) which involves the recruitment of highly capable scholars as new academics.

Throughout his doctoral journey, the nGAP Programme played a pivotal role in supporting his development by providing resources such as dedicated research time, financial assistance, mentorship opportunities, and access to academic workshops and conferences. While the programme faced initial structural challenges in its early phases, its evolution into a more coordinated and supportive system ultimately contributed to his success.

Today, Dr Kompi’s achievement is more than the completion of a degree, it is a celebration of perseverance, growth, and purpose. His journey serves as an inspiration to current and future nGAP scholars, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, persistence and belief in one’s goals can lead to extraordinary outcomes. As he steps forward into the next phase of his academic career, he carries with him not only knowledge and expertise but also a powerful story of resilience that will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.

Read more:
https://www.cut.ac.za/news/dr-kompi-reflects-on-hid-ngap-doctoral-journey

CUT Alumni Wine Tasting Function at Urth on Friday, 29 May 2026

Alumni and Friends of Alumni came together for an evening of fun, connection and community. The event provided a perfect setting to strengthen bonds, build unforgettable memories and celebrate the spirit of alumni.





Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT)

An employment opportunity for qualifying CUT Alumni.