Everything You Need To Know About Cape Peninsula University Of Technology (Cput)

The Cape Peninsula University of Technology, or simply CPUT, is far more than a place of lectures and exams—it’s a hub of innovation, transformation, and opportunity at the heart of Cape Town. Known for its hands-on approach to learning, CPUT is committed to producing graduates who are not just qualified on paper, but ready to make an impact in the real world.

Established in 2005 through the merger of two historic technikons, the university has since grown into the largest university of technology in the Western Cape, serving more than 32,000 students across its campuses. Guided by its motto “Creating Futures”, CPUT is on a mission to empower students with the skills, confidence, and vision to thrive in an ever-changing world.

In this guide, we’ll explore CPUT’s history, faculties, research, student life, and global partnerships—everything that makes it a cornerstone of higher education in South Africa.

History and Background

The Merger that Created CPUT

CPUT came into being on 1 January 2005, when the Cape Technikon and the Peninsula Technikon merged. This was part of a national transformation of higher education after apartheid—designed to streamline institutions and align them with the needs of a modern economy.

• Cape Technikon had roots going back to 1920, when it began as the Cape Technical College, set up to meet demands for consolidated technical education. Over the decades, it evolved into an advanced technical college, and by the 1970s, it was legally able to award degrees under the Technikons Act.

• Peninsula Technikon, meanwhile, was established in 1962 as the Peninsula Technical College. Initially created to train coloured apprentices, it later expanded its mandate and, after the lifting of quotas in 1987, became a diverse space for higher learning.

The merger brought together decades of technical expertise, combining resources and talent to create a stronger, unified university. Symbolically, it also represented the broader unification of South Africa’s higher education system.

Leadership and Vision

CPUT is led by a team deeply committed to innovation and academic excellence. Its current Chancellor, Thandi Modise, and Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Chris Nhlapo, have been instrumental in steering the university toward its vision of being Africa’s leading smart university of technology.

The institution’s leadership has consistently emphasized relevance—ensuring that academic programmes meet industry needs, research has a social impact, and students are prepared for the world beyond graduation.

Academic Programmes and Structure

One of CPUT’s standout features is its diverse faculties, which combine theory with practical training to prepare graduates for immediate entry into the workforce.

Faculties

• Faculty of Applied Sciences: Biotechnology, environmental sciences, chemistry, and mathematics—all taught with strong lab-based and problem-solving components.

• Faculty of Business and Management Sciences: Courses in accounting, marketing, human resources, and management that train future leaders of industry.

• Faculty of Education: Dedicated to shaping the next generation of teachers through innovative methods and community engagement.

• Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment: Civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering, with strong ties to industry.

• Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences: Nursing, radiography, and physiotherapy programmes addressing South Africa’s growing healthcare needs.

• Faculty of Informatics and Design: Home to computer science, graphic design, multimedia, and information technology, keeping pace with the digital world.

Work-Integrated Learning

A unique aspect of studying at CPUT is its co-operative education model. Many programmes include internships or workplace placements, ensuring that graduates have real-world experience before they even leave campus. This not only boosts employability but also builds professional networks.

Postgraduate Studies and Research

For those pursuing advanced degrees, CPUT offers master’s and doctoral programmes with a strong research focus. Research units like the e-Innovation Academy foster cutting-edge studies in ICT, renewable energy, biotechnology, and more—addressing both local challenges and global issues.

Campuses and Facilities

CPUT is a multi-campus university, each with its own history, focus, and character:

• Bellville Campus: A hub for engineering, applied sciences, and business. Known for state-of-the-art laboratories.

• District Six Campus (Cape Town): Built on the historic District Six area, this campus carries a spirit of resilience and culture.

• Mowbray Campus: Specializes in teacher education.

• Granger Bay Campus: Home to the Cape Town Hotel School and Survival Centre—perfectly placed near the waterfront.

• Wellington Campus: Focused on teacher training and community engagement beyond Cape Town.

Student Support and Resources

Students enjoy access to:

• Modern libraries and research centres.

• Fully equipped labs and workshops.

• Safe, well-maintained residences housing thousands of students.

• Sports facilities, gyms, and wellness services.

• Career counselling, academic advising, and financial aid support.

Student Life and Culture

Life at CPUT goes beyond academics—it’s a vibrant, diverse community where students from different backgrounds come together.

• Clubs and Societies: From sports teams and drama groups to entrepreneurship clubs and cultural associations, students have endless opportunities to get involved.

• Leadership Opportunities: Through student governance, learners participate in decision-making, shaping campus life.

• Events and Festivals: Career fairs, cultural nights, and academic symposia keep the campus buzzing all year.

This mix of activities fosters personal growth, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships.

Research, Innovation, and Industry Partnerships

CPUT is at the forefront of applied research and innovation in South Africa. Its research centres and academies focus on renewable energy, sustainable urban planning, ICT, and biotechnology.

The university has built strong partnerships with industry, ensuring students gain hands-on experience while businesses benefit from academic expertise. The co-op model is key: students alternate between classroom learning and work placements, making them highly employable.

On top of this, CPUT has developed start-up incubators and entrepreneurship hubs, encouraging students to transform ideas into businesses. This makes CPUT not just a place of learning, but also a launchpad for future innovators.

Global Perspective

Though rooted in Cape Town, CPUT has a global outlook.

• It attracts students from across Africa and beyond, creating a multicultural environment.

• It collaborates with universities worldwide through exchange programmes and joint research projects.

• Its memberships in organizations like the Association of African Universities (AAU) and Cape Higher Education Consortium (CHEC) show its international standing.

For international students, the experience at CPUT offers both world-class academics and immersion in South Africa’s vibrant cultural landscape.

Community Engagement and Social Responsibility

CPUT is guided by the spirit of ubuntu—the idea of shared humanity and compassion. This philosophy is reflected in:

• Outreach programmes in underprivileged communities.

• Skills development initiatives for youth.

• Health and wellness projects.

• Research and innovation aimed at solving societal problems.

The university also prioritizes sustainability, with eco-friendly campus initiatives and research into renewable energy and green technologies.

Alumni and Achievements

CPUT boasts an impressive network of alumni who are leaders in business, technology, health, and the arts. One of its most celebrated graduates is Zozibini Tunzi, Miss Universe 2019, who embodies the university’s commitment to nurturing excellence.

Graduates consistently make their mark in industry, research, and entrepreneurship—testament to CPUT’s practical approach to education.

Looking Ahead

With its foundation of history, diversity, and innovation, CPUT is constantly evolving. The university is investing in digital transformation, global collaboration, and sustainability, ensuring it stays at the forefront of higher education in Africa.

Its vision remains clear: to be Africa’s leading smart university of technology, producing graduates who are ready not just for today’s challenges but also for tomorrow’s opportunities.

Conclusion

The Cape Peninsula University of Technology is more than an institution—it’s a catalyst for change. From its five vibrant campuses to its innovative research hubs, from its rich cultural life to its global partnerships, CPUT is shaping South Africa’s future one graduate at a time.

Whether you’re a prospective student, a research partner, or simply curious about higher education in South Africa, CPUT offers a compelling story: one of resilience, innovation, and community.

In short, CPUT is not just creating futures—it’s creating leaders, innovators, and changemakers who will transform the world.