BSD owns and governs two Centers for the Deaf: Ramotswa and Francistown Centre for Deaf Education (RCDE and FDCE). These are government-aided residential schools. The two Centers provide pre- and primary education, vocational training skills to the Deaf learners, including Sign Language Courses that are accredited by BOA.
BSD is pleased to announce the following vacant position tenable at Francistown Centre for Deaf Education.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Francistown
- Category: Education
- Closing Date: 2026-09-11
Key Responsibilities
- Responsible for preparing balanced meals for children
- Make sure that the food is served appropriately and in time
- Observe safety standards and precautions in the kitchen and dining hall
- Prepare all meals with care and under good hygienic conditions
- Keep personal cleanliness
Requirements
- Food Safety and Hygiene Certificate
- Certificate in Culinary Arts/Cooking
- BGCSE and or related field
How to Apply
Phone: (+267) 3188374
Address: P.O. BOX VJ33, Ramotswa Plot 1061, Extension 2
REF Code: CIRCULAR NO. 1.2026 | Vacancy Circular No: CIRCULAR NO. 1.2026
About the Company
The Botswana Society for the Deaf (BSD) is a non-governmental organization headquartered in Gaborone, Botswana, dedicated to advancing the rights and welfare of Deaf individuals across the country. It provides advocacy, sign language promotion, capacity-building, and community support services tailored to Botswana’s Deaf population. BSD operates nationally with a focus on inclusive education, employment access, and policy engagement within Botswana’s legal and social frameworks. The organization maintains its official presence at bsd.org.bw and collaborates with local institutions to strengthen Deaf participation in Botswana’s development.
Deaf Advocacy and Empowerment in Botswana
Website: https://bsd.org.bw/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Cook role in an educational institution like the Botswana Society for the Deaf?
A National Certificate in Food and Beverage Services (NQF Level 3 or 4) from a BQA-accredited institution such as BOITE or a local technical college is commonly expected. Relevant experience in institutional cooking — especially in schools or NGOs — is highly valued, and food hygiene certification (e.g., from the Ministry of Health and Wellness) is mandatory under Botswana’s Public Health Act.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities for a Cook in this role?
You’ll prepare nutritious, culturally appropriate meals for learners and staff following dietary guidelines set by the institution and national school feeding standards. Tasks include menu planning aligned with budget constraints, maintaining strict hygiene and safety protocols, managing inventory, and collaborating with teaching staff to accommodate dietary needs of Deaf learners, including those with additional support requirements.
How does workplace culture and expectations differ for Cooks in Botswana-based educational NGOs compared to private-sector kitchens?
Workplaces like the Botswana Society for the Deaf emphasise teamwork, respect for Deaf culture, and patience — often requiring basic awareness of sign language etiquette and visual communication methods. Punctuality, reliability, and adherence to public sector-aligned working hours (e.g., 07:30–16:30) are standard, with supervisors often prioritising compassion and consistency over speed alone.
What realistic career progression paths exist for Cooks employed by organisations like the Botswana Society for the Deaf?
With experience and further training — such as a Diploma in Hospitality Management or Nutrition — you may advance to roles like Senior Cook, Kitchen Supervisor, or Catering Coordinator within the same organisation or similar NGOs. Some transition into vocational training roles, supporting skills development for Deaf youth through government or UNICEF-funded programmes in Botswana.
What benefits (leave, medical aid, pension) can a Cook expect in this type of role?
Permanent staff typically receive 22 days annual leave, sick leave per the Employment Act, and access to the Botswana National Pension Scheme (BNPS). Medical aid is often provided through employer-sponsored schemes like Medshield Botswana or local alternatives, though coverage level depends on the organisation’s capacity and funding sources, including donor support.