CPUT VC

Student success remains a top priority for both the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and The University of the Western Cape.

Building on their engagement held last week, the executive leadership teams of the two institutions met again today under the leadership of Vice-Chancellors, Prof Chris Nhlapo and Prof Robert Balfour.

The ongoing discussions reflect a shared commitment to addressing student matters and ensuring that both universities continue to provide a safe, supportive and conducive environment for learning.

Just when you thought this week’s celebrations had concluded, we have one more remarkable highlight to share.

Last night, our Granger Bay campus proudly hosted a truly prestigious event, closing off the week in grand style. In a powerful partnership with the Black Management Forum (BMF) Western Cape, Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) proudly presented the Africa Day Public Lecture and BMF 50th Anniversary Celebration, under the compelling theme: “Diversifying African Business.”

Setting a powerful tone for the evening, our Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo, emphasized that this collaboration is far from accidental.
"This partnership is intentional," Prof Nhlapo noted. "It reflects the alignment of academia and industry, the practice of values and action. By hosting the Africa Day lecture jointly, CPUT and BMF amplify transformation, ensuring that both universities and businesses contribute to shaping inclusive futures, thus facilitating social change."

Building on this inspiring foundation, the event featured Professor Bonang Mohale, a distinguished South African leader who serves as the Chancellor of the University of the Free State and Chairperson of the Bidvest Group Limited, ArcelorMittal South Africa, and SBV Services. Professor Mohale delivered a thought-provoking keynote address that sparked a robust engagement. His insights delved deep into inclusivity, the diversification of African business ecosystems, and both the challenges and opportunities facing African businesses in the 21st century.

The intellectual energy continued to flow into dynamic panel discussions, which beautifully brought together diverse voices from both academia and industry to unpack these critical ideas.

As we reflect on the theme of diversifying African business, true economic transformation requires deliberate collaboration, visionary leadership, and an unwavering commitment to inclusion. The BMF has champion-led this charge for half a century, proving that a more diverse and equitable business landscape is not just possible, but essential for our continent's success.

We extend our warmest congratulations to the Black Management Forum on their momentous 50th anniversary! Here is to five decades of driving transformation, and to many more years of shaping inclusive futures together.