South Africa is an emerging world player in forefront astrophysical sciences, with major government investment into new facilities such as the Square Kilometre Array.  The CET is devoted to expanding the role of South Africa in international multi-wavelength studies of galaxy evolution across cosmic time, by fostering a vibrant numerical galaxy formation group in Cape Town aimed at addressing some of the most fundamental questions in extragalactic astronomy today.  The CET focuses on the interface between theory and observations, in order to optimize and guide the use of major South African telescopes such as SALT, MeerKAT, and SKA and best leverage these facilities within local and international collaborations engaged in cutting-edge science.  The CET aims to provide support and mentoring for graduate students and postdocs, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds, to give South Africans greater opportunities for integration and advancement within the international astronomical community.