By Phaphama Tshisikhawe
In a proud career moment for Venessa Ranjit, Director of Logistical Services at the Tshwane University of Technology, she takes up a coveted seat on the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) Alumni Advisory Panel. Her two-year appointment follows a formal CSC invitation and reflects more than 15 years of committed leadership in higher education administration.
The CSC Alumni Advisory Panel plays an important role in shaping the future of the Commonwealth Scholarships. It serves as a bridge between the CSC and its global alumni community, ensuring that the lived experiences of former scholars help refine scholarship policies, strengthen programme delivery and improve support for new and future cohorts. Through this platform, alumni contribute insights that guide the CSC’s development activities and help maintain the relevance and impact of its scholarship and fellowship programmes across Commonwealth countries.
Ranjit brings an impressive track record to the panel. She holds an MSc in International Construction Management and has contributed to student services, international partnerships through HEFMA (Higher Education Facilities Management Association of Southern Africa) and the Oxford Women’s Leadership Programme, as well as logistical operations at TUT. Since 2023, she has also served as a mentor in the CSC master’s programme, where she offers tailored academic and professional support drawn from her experience in university governance and global education initiatives.
“This appointment is a privilege and opportunity to serve students in the international universities’ community as well as in countries where the Commonwealth Scholarship Programmes are implemented,” she said.
She added that the purpose of the Commonwealth Scholarship Programmes is to meet the development needs of Commonwealth countries by training highly skilled professionals and academics.
The appointment also aligns with the CSC’s 2025–2028 Strategy, which continues to prioritise opportunity for candidates from disadvantaged backgrounds as a defining feature of its scholarships and fellowships.
Venessa Ranjit, Director of Logistical Services at the Tshwane University of Technology, has been appointed to the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) Alumni Advisory Panel.