Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Counseling
- Closing Date: 2026-08-10
Key Responsibilities
- Use analytical skills across complex presenting issues and situations in developing an appropriate response and counselling intervention.
- Provide professional individual/ group counselling, using different strategies, to students dealing with personal, emotional, academic and interpersonal challenges.
- Provide resources that are helpful to students in their social, psychological and emotional adjustment
- Make appropriate referrals to specialized services or outside resources
- Maintain accurate and confidential records of counselling sessions and interventions provided
- Liaise with faculties and University staff to address psycho-social issues on campus
- Provide crisis intervention and emergency services to students experiencing emotional distress.
- Assist with the design and implement psycho-education programmes to facilitate students’ growth in different areas of their lives.
- Provide consultative services within the University, community agencies, social services agencies, rehabilitation programs and health maintenance organizations.
Requirements
- A Master’s degree in Counselling, Psychology or related field is required.
- Have excellent communication.
- Excellent inter-and-intrapersonal, and crisis intervention skills.
- Be an experienced, competent and professional Counsellor.
Salary
The University of Botswana offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
How to Apply
REF Code: IRC 3401 | Job Code: IRC 3401
About the Company
The University of Botswana (UB) was established in 1982, as the first institution of higher education in Botswana. The university currently has three campuses: one in the capital city Gaborone, one in Francistown, and another in Maun. The University of Botswana is divided into six faculties: Business, Education, Engineering, Humanities, Health Sciences, Science and Social Sciences and the Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital. UB is ranked 1201–1500 in the world and 21st in sub-Saharan Africa in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Ranking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical educational and professional requirements for a University Counsellor in Botswana?
Generally, a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology, Educational Psychology, or a related field is required. Professional registration with a relevant body in Botswana, such as the Botswana Health Professions Council (BHPC) for certain roles, would be highly advantageous or mandatory. Practical experience working with young adults or in an educational setting is also commonly sought.
What does a typical day look like for a Counsellor at the University of Botswana?
A typical day involves conducting individual and group counselling sessions with students facing academic, personal, or emotional challenges. You would also be involved in developing and delivering workshops on mental health awareness, stress management, and academic success strategies. Administrative tasks, record-keeping, and liaising with other university departments are also common duties.
What is the work culture like for a professional staff member at a Botswanan university, particularly for a Counsellor?
The work culture often values professionalism, respect for hierarchy, and collaborative teamwork among staff members. There is a strong emphasis on student welfare and creating a supportive learning environment. Adherence to university policies and procedures is paramount, alongside maintaining client confidentiality and ethical standards.
What are the potential career progression paths for a University Counsellor in Botswana?
Career progression often involves moving into senior counselling roles, supervising junior counsellors, or specialising in specific areas like crisis intervention or career guidance. Opportunities may also arise to take on leadership positions within the student affairs department or contribute to policy development. Further professional development and higher qualifications can open doors to lecturer positions if combined with relevant academic experience.
What kind of benefits package (e.g., leave, medical aid, pension) can I expect as a University Counsellor at UB?
University positions in Botswana typically offer competitive benefits packages that include a pension scheme, medical aid contributions, and a structured leave entitlement. These usually encompass annual leave, sick leave, and sometimes study leave for professional development. Specific details can vary, but generally aim to provide comprehensive support for employees.