Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Academic Leadership
- Closing Date: 9999-12-31
Key Responsibilities
- Strategy and Policy Lead the development and implementation of the Faculty’s Teaching and Learning strategy, policies, and initiatives, ensuring alignment with the University’s strategic objectives. Monitor performance and drive continuous improvement across Schools and Departments.
- Teaching and Learning Leadership Champion innovative teaching practices, educational technologies, and a culture of academic excellence to enhance learning outcomes and teaching effectiveness.
- Curriculum Development Oversee the design, review, and enhancement of academic programmes to ensure quality, relevance, and compliance with accreditation and professional standards.
- Student Success Promote student achievement by strengthening assessment practices, academic support services, student retention, and overall learning outcomes.
- Stakeholder Engagement Build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring a high-quality student and stakeholder experience.
- People Leadership Support the recruitment, development, performance management, and engagement of academic and professional staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture.
- Financial Management Contribute to the planning and management of the Faculty’s Teaching and Learning budget in line with University policies and delegated authority.
- Risk, Governance and Compliance Oversee risks related to teaching and learning, support audit activities, and ensure compliance with University policies, accreditation requirements, and relevant legislation.
Requirements
- A PhD/Doctorate or advanced degree (e.g. MMed) in relevant discipline is required
- Must be at the rank of Associate Professor or higher.
- A minimum of eight (8) years’ experience, three (3) of which should have been at Departmental Chairperson level or equivalent.
- Registered/registrable with Botswana Health Professions Council or Nursing and Midwifery Council of Botswana.
- Extensive experience in higher education teaching, curriculum development, and educational leadership roles.
- Demonstrated knowledge of pedagogical theories, instructional design principles, and assessment practices.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- Commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment that supports the success of all students.
Salary
The University offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
How to Apply
Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3367
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 academic qualifications and professional certifications are typically required for the Deputy Dean: Teaching and Learning role in Medicine and Health Sciences at the University of Botswana?
Applicants usually hold a PhD in a health sciences discipline, along with a recognised teaching qualification (e.g., Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice or equivalent) and registration with the Botswana Nursing Council or relevant statutory body where applicable. Senior academic rank (e.g., Associate Professor or Professor) and substantial experience in curriculum development, accreditation processes (e.g., with the Botswana Qualifications Authority), and medical education leadership are expected.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of this role within the University of Botswana’s Faculty of Medicine?
The Deputy Dean oversees curriculum review and implementation aligned with national health priorities and BQA standards, supports faculty in pedagogical innovation, and leads teaching quality assurance including internal audits and preparation for external reviews by the Botswana Qualifications Authority or WHO-accredited bodies. They also coordinate academic staff development, manage teaching resources, and liaise with clinical partners such as Princess Marina Hospital and the Ministry of Health and Wellness.
How does the academic work culture in Botswana influence expectations for this leadership role?
Leadership is expected to reflect collaborative, consultative decision-making aligned with both university statutes and Botswana’s cultural values of *botho* (respect, dignity, and collective responsibility). Timely reporting to Senate and Council, adherence to public sector ethics guidelines, and active engagement with community health stakeholders — especially in rural outreach initiatives — are strongly emphasised.
What realistic career progression paths exist after serving as Deputy Dean: Teaching and Learning in this faculty?
Successful tenure often leads to appointment as Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences or to senior university-wide roles such as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) or Director of Quality Assurance. Some academics transition into national advisory positions, e.g., with the Botswana Health Professions Council or the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ Human Resources for Health Unit, leveraging their curriculum and accreditation expertise.
What standard benefits (leave, medical aid, pension) does this role typically include under Botswana’s public university employment framework?
The role attracts full civil service benefits, including 30 days annual leave, comprehensive government-subsidised medical aid through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) rollout, and mandatory pension contributions under the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund (BPOPF). Additional allowances may apply for academic leadership duties, subject to University of Botswana Council approval and Treasury guidelines.
How should a candidate apply, and what do selection panels at the University of Botswana specifically look for in applicants for this role?
Applications must be submitted via the University of Botswana Human Resources portal during advertised vacancies, accompanied by certified academic credentials, evidence of teaching leadership (e.g., BQA audit reports or curriculum documents), and letters of support from clinical or academic partners. Panels prioritise demonstrable experience in aligning health sciences education with Botswana’s National Development Plan priorities, proven success in mentoring junior academics, and familiarity with local accreditation frameworks and public sector governance procedures.