Edith Sempe is currently serving as the director of the Research Development Support and Postgrad Department at the Central University of Technology, Free State, (CUT).
She holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Microbiology and Biochemistry, an honours degree in Biochemistry from the Rhodes University, in addition to postgraduate studies that led to a masters degree in Business Administration from the North-West University (NWU), previously the Potchefstroom University.
She has over 20 years’ experience in research development administration, strategic and operations management, project management, and organisational excellence in both public and private sectors.
Her professional career includes over ten years’ experience gained in higher education research administration and two years’ managing incubation and innovation programmes, regional and local economic development projects with the emphasis on science, engineering, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship intervention.
“Having joined the CUT in 2014 as a research officer, the university played a pivotal role in my personal and professional growth, particularly in supporting my advancement as a woman in the workplace,” Sempe has stated.
“My growth was supported through interventions such as being part of a programme focused on developing the next generation of women in leadership, mentorship programmes, the opportunity to act in a leadership position, including exposure and networking opportunities to interact with key external stakeholders.
“With these experiences and skills gained, I managed to grow through the ranks to a leadership position within research administration.
“Overall, the university has provided me with the essential skills and knowledge required for me to progress in my career, whilst also fostering a strong commitment to promoting the advancement of women across all professional fields, especially in research development,” she said.
Sempe is studying towards a doctorate in Business Administration relating to Higher Education Management.
