DEPUTY DEAN – TEACHING AND LEARNING
FACULTY OF BUSINESS, ECONOMICS AND LAW VACANCY NO: IRC 3434 The University of Botswana (UB), a state – owned tertiary education institution, invites suitably qualified, and experienced candidates for the position of Deputy Dean Teaching and Learning.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Education
- Closing Date: 2026-08-13
Key Responsibilities
- The Deputy Dean Teaching and Learning is responsible for driving excellence in teaching and learning within the faculty. Reporting directly to the Executive Dean of Faculty. This role collaborates closely with other faculty leaders to enhance the overall academic excellence for both academic personnel and students.
- Contribute to the development of the University’s strategy and lead implementation at a departmental level.
- Develop and lead the execution of a comprehensive Faculty Teaching and Learning strategic plan, policies and procedures in line with the university’s overall goals.
- Monitor and evaluate the performance of Schools and departmental operations against established goals and objectives, identifying areas for improvement and recommending corrective action as needed.
- Provide visionary leadership to the team and inspire innovation.
- Provide visionary leadership in pedagogical approaches, promoting innovative teaching methodologies and technologies within the Faculty.
- Explore and integrate technology solutions to enhance teaching and learning experiences.
- Foster a culture of teaching excellence and continuous improvement in line with the Teaching and Learning strategy.
- Conduct regular assessments of teaching effectiveness and student satisfaction
- Lead the design, evaluation, and enhancement of academic programmes, ensuring alignment with industry needs and accreditation standards in collaboration with Departmental Chairpersons and Programme Leaders within the Faculty.
- Monitor and respond to changes in educational trends and regulations.
- Oversee the development and implementation of assessment tools to measure the effectiveness of teaching and learning strategies.
- Analyse data to inform decisions related to curriculum and instructional design or review.
- Oversee student support services, advising, and mentoring programmes to enhance student success and retention within the Faculty.
- Contribute to the development of and implement initiatives to improve retention rates and ensure positive learning
- Provide excellent customer service ensuring client and stakeholder satisfaction.
- Establish and maintain partnerships with relevant internal and external stakeholders to enable effective delivery of the departmental mandate, as necessary.
- Resolve customer enquiries and issues in a timely and efficient manner.
- Identify and address areas of improvement for customer and stakeholder experience.
- Develop and manage the departmental risk register with clear mitigation strategies.
- Coordinate and support internal and external departmental audits as per the University policy.
- Address audit findings and recommendations to improve processes and controls.
- Ensure departmental compliance to legislative and statutory requirements.
- Lead efforts to recruit, retain, and develop a diverse and talented team.
- Support departmental professional development activities, including mentoring, training, and opportunities for advancement.
- Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to support continuous improvement to employees under supervision.
- Engage and discipline staff in accordance with defined human resource management policies and procedures and prevailing labour laws.
- Develop and manage Faculty Teaching and Learning budget.
- Recommend expenditure in accordance with delegated limits.
Requirements
- A PhD/Doctorate or advanced degree in a relevant field is required;
- Must be at the rank of associate professor or higher;
- Higher Education experience is required.
- 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
commensurate with experience and qualifications
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ub.bw
REF Code: IRC 3434 | Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3434
About the Company
The University of Botswana (UB) stands as the nation's premier institution for higher learning, with its main campus primarily located in Gaborone. Established in 1982, it plays a critical role in advancing the intellectual and human resource capacity essential for Botswana's socio-economic development. UB offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across diverse faculties, including sciences, humanities, business, and education. The university is deeply committed to fostering robust research and innovation, addressing key societal challenges and contributing to the economic diversification of Botswana. Through its dedication to academic excellence and community engagement, UB actively prepares skilled professionals who drive progress across all sectors within Botswana.
Shaping the Future
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical academic qualifications and professional experiences expected for a Deputy Dean – Teaching and Learning role at a university in Botswana?
Candidates are generally expected to hold a PhD in a relevant academic discipline, coupled with extensive experience in university-level teaching, research, and academic leadership. Proven expertise in curriculum development, quality assurance, and faculty mentorship is highly valued. A strong publication record and a history of successful project management are also key.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Deputy Dean focused on Teaching and Learning in a Botswanan university context?
Daily tasks often include overseeing curriculum development and review, implementing teaching quality assurance policies, and supporting faculty professional development in pedagogy. The role also involves student academic welfare, managing teaching resources, and contributing to strategic planning for educational excellence.
How would you describe the typical work culture and expectations for senior academic staff within a university in Botswana?
The work culture typically emphasizes professionalism, respect for hierarchy, and a collaborative approach to academic excellence and national development. Punctuality, strong interpersonal skills, and effective communication with diverse stakeholders are highly valued. A commitment to institutional values and community engagement is also important.
What are the realistic career progression paths for someone serving as a Deputy Dean – Teaching and Learning at a university in Botswana?
Successful Deputy Deans may progress to roles such as Dean of a Faculty, full Professor with increased administrative duties, or other senior management positions within the university. Opportunities could also arise in national educational bodies or international academic collaborations, leveraging their leadership experience.
What are some of the typical benefits packages offered to senior academic staff, such as a Deputy Dean, in Botswana?
Senior academic staff can generally expect competitive benefits including comprehensive medical aid, a robust pension scheme, and generous annual leave entitlements. Depending on the institution, housing allowances, relocation assistance, and opportunities for professional development or study leave may also be part of the package.