Research

Celebrating women leaders in research management

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As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month, a commemoration of more than 20 000 women who took a stand against injustice on 9 August 1956, we salute the great strides of women in all spheres of life. 

Today, we pride ourselves on having women in leadership roles in the higher education sector. We have pioneering women transforming research management to enable academics to pursue solution-oriented research and innovation that has sustainable societal impact.

The Research Support news desk sat with two women leaders, Dr Retha Visagie and Dr Cebisa Nkhumeleni, who ensure that Unisa’s Directorate of Research Support provides quality services in an efficient, professional and courteous manner to the university’s researchers and postgraduate students.


Dr Retha Visagie, Manager: Research Integrity

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As a certified Senior Research Management Professional (International Professional Recognition Council), Visagie is strategically operationalising the university's commitment to producing ethical, rigorous and socially impactful research. Within the Department of Research, Innovation and Commercialisation, her responsibilities align closely with the university's research and innovation strategy and include:

  • Providing leadership in research governance and ethics review processes to ensure that research adheres to national legislation, international standards and institutional policies, thereby safeguarding the integrity of research outputs.
  • Driving initiatives that build staff and student competencies through targeted training, mentorship and professional development, equipping the university community to deliver high-quality, ethically sound research.
  • Building collaborations with regulatory bodies, professional associations and academic partners that reinforce the university's standing as a trusted contributor of ethical, high-impact research.
  • Contributing to the professionalisation of research administration and management, positioning this as a recognised and strategic career pathway within the higher education and research sector. By pursuing and promoting professional standards such as the IPRC certification, she not only strengthens her own practice, but also helps to establish benchmarks that enhance the credibility and impact of the profession.


Women's Month, a reminder of women who have made an impact in my life

Women's month reminds me of the resilient and courageous women who nurtured, challenged, mentored and inspired me. I am who I am because of the contributions of these women in my growth and development. Women's Month honours my mother's quiet strength, the amazing fudge (love) of a grandmother, the camaraderie of a sister and the special bond between mothers, daughters and sons. These mentors, colleagues and friends have demonstrated that leadership ought to be a caring and transformative relationship with others.

Amidst the challenges of inequalities and gender-based violence, as women, we must stand together, raise our children to be decent human beings, embrace self-care practices and ensure that the next generation of women inherits a world where their dignity, contributions and leadership are fully recognised and respected.


Message of encouragement to women in research management

To my fellow women in research management, embrace the many opportunities to shape and showcase your personal brand. While few of us may have set out with this career in mind, it’s clear that we were destined to be here. Our paths may have been unexpected, but our presence is purposeful and powerful.


Dr Cebisa Nkhumeleni, Manager: Research Grants

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The Directorate of Research Support plays an important role in equipping researchers to fulfil Unisa’s vision of being a leading African university in the service of humanity. My role is to support research, negotiate with funders and provide research support services through the pre-award, post-award, postgraduate and research collaboration unit. This is implemented by providing training, mentorship and support to innovators/scientists and the research community.


Women’s Month, a time to recognise the struggles of women throughout history

Women’s month is a time to recognise and honour the struggles of women throughout history. Most importantly, it is a period to acknowledge and reflect on the progress women have made in various fields. It also reflects on the ongoing challenges and struggles women face, including exclusion, gender inequality and, importantly, women's abuse in their homes and workspaces.

It is also a time to reflect on how we could inspire young women starting in the workspace to pursue their dreams, teaching them to be resilient and resolute in what they believe in and fight for their rights at work, in society and in their homes.


Message of encouragement to women in research management.

As a woman in research management, women should know that they are the trailblazers, paving the way for others to follow. Your dedication, expertise and passion for advancing research are invaluable assets to your organisation and scientific community. Women need to remember that they are unique, and their unique perspectives and skills bring a fresh approach to research management. Their ability to navigate complex projects and their collaborative nature are crucial for innovation and the success of research endeavours.

Women need not underestimate the impact on the research community. Their relentless effort to enable scientists and researchers to focus on their projects is noticeable, knowing that their administrative and logistical aspects are being handled with rigour and precision.

To all women out there, we salute you!

* Compiled by Mpho Moloele, PR and Communications, Department of Research, Innovation and Commercialisation

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Publish date: 2025-09-04 00:00:00.0

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