Job Summary
- Type: part-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Social Services
- 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.
How to Apply
REF Code: IRC 3358 | Job Code: IRC 3358
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 qualifications and experience are typically required for a Part-Time Counsellor position at a university in Botswana?
For a university counselling role in Botswana, a Master's degree in Counselling, Clinical Psychology, or a related field is often essential. Practical experience in providing counselling services, especially to young adults or students, is highly valued. Registration with a relevant professional body in Botswana, if applicable, would also be a strong asset.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Part-Time Counsellor at the University of Botswana?
Day-to-day responsibilities typically involve providing individual and group counselling sessions to students addressing academic, personal, and emotional challenges. You would also be expected to maintain confidential client records and potentially participate in mental health awareness programs or workshops for the university community.
What is the typical work culture and expectation for a Part-Time Counsellor within a university setting in Botswana?
The work culture often emphasizes professionalism, empathy, and adherence to ethical guidelines, while maintaining confidentiality is paramount. Expectations include punctuality, commitment to student welfare, and adaptability to diverse student needs and cultural backgrounds prevalent in Botswana.
What are the realistic career progression or growth paths for a Part-Time Counsellor in Botswana, particularly within a university environment?
While part-time roles may have limited direct progression within that specific position, a successful tenure can open doors to full-time counselling roles or specialized positions within the university or other institutions. Continued professional development, acquiring further certifications, and expanding your expertise in specific counselling areas are key to long-term growth.
What kind of benefits, such as leave, medical aid, or pension, can a Part-Time Counsellor expect from a university in Botswana?
Benefits for part-time staff can vary significantly compared to full-time employees, often including pro-rata annual leave based on hours worked. Access to medical aid or pension schemes might be limited or require employee contribution for part-time roles, so it is important to clarify these details during the application process.
How should I best apply for this role, and what do employers like the University of Botswana look for in a counselling candidate?
Applications typically involve submitting a comprehensive CV, academic transcripts, and a detailed cover letter highlighting relevant experience and motivations. Employers in Botswana seek candidates with strong communication skills, cultural sensitivity, demonstrated counselling competencies, and a genuine commitment to student support.