The University of Botswana (UB), a premier state-owned tertiary institution dedicated to shaping the future through excellence, research, innovation and meaningful societal impact, invites applications from accomplished and suitably qualified professionals for the position of Head: Student Engagement in the Department of Student Life & Experience. The Head: Student Engagement is responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of programmes and services that enhance overall student experience. This leadership role focuses on fostering student wellness, housing services, development and governance, and Sports Culture and Recreation. The incumbent will work collaboratively with various stakeholders to create a vibrant, supportive and inclusive campus environment .
Job Summary
- Employer: University of Botswana
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Education
- Salary: competitive salaries and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications
- Closing Date: 2026-10-14
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute to the development of university and departmental strategies, policies, plans and procedures, and lead implementation at a sectional level.
- Develop and implement Student Engagement level plans in line with the University goals and objectives.
- Monitor and evaluate the performance of Student Housing and Engagement operations against established goals and objectives, identifying areas for improvement and recommending corrective action as needed.
- Oversee the development and management of ERP and student engagement records.
- Stay updated with key trends to identify opportunities for continuous improvement and innovation.
- Oversee housing assignments, room allocations, and occupancy rates.
- Develop comprehensive guidelines for provision of on/off campus student accommodation.
- Develop and lead the implementation of the Living and Learning Communities Programmes.
- Ensure a healthy and safe living environment for students across all living facilities.
- Provide guidance and support to students living in university housing, addressing their concerns and needs.
- Oversee the development of co-curriculum programs that address areas of welfare.
- Liaise with counseling services, health centers, and academic advisors to ensure holistic student support.
- Liaise with academic departments to integrate housing-related programmes with the overall student experience.
- Oversee the development and implementation of cultural, sports, and recreational programmes.
- Promote and ensure diverse and inclusive culture, sports, and recreation activities.
- Ensure that sports and recreational facilities are well-maintained and accessible to all students.
- Drive university participation in national, regional and international participation in sporting, cultural and recreational activities.
- Lead the development of and support student leadership programmes and governance structures.
- Foster student involvement in university governance.
- Oversee the development and enforcement of student conduct policies.
- Ensure fair and consistent handling of disciplinary matters, fostering a respectful and accountable campus community.
- Oversee the development and implementation of wellness programmes that address various dimensions of well-being, including physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects.
- Foster an environment that addresses the diverse needs of students across the university.
- Ensure adequate resources are allocated for wellness initiatives and programmes .
- 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.
- Participate in recruitment and ensure retention and development of a diverse team.
- Support sectional level 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.
- Assist with the development of the departmental budget.
- Lead the development and management of the Student Engagement budget.
- Recommend expenditure in accordance with delegated limits.
- Develop and manage sectional risk register with clear mitigation strategies.
- Coordinate and support internal and external sectional audits as per the University policy.
- Address audit findings and recommendations to improve processes and controls.
- Ensure sectional compliance with legislative and statutory requirements and
- Undertake any other duties as directed by the supervisor in line with their role.
Requirements
- A minimum of a Master’s degree in Social Sciences, Humanities, Education or any other related field is required;
- A PhD will be an added advantage ;.
- A minimum of eight (8) years’ experience, three (3) of which should have been at managerial level
- Higher Education experience is required.
- Strong leadership, strategic planning, and budget management skills;
- Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities;
- Coordinating, organizing and supervisory skills.
- Competencies in equity and diversity, transformation and change, emotional intelligence, adaptability, resilience, and flexibility, curriculum development, research methodologies;
- Be registered or eligible for registration with a recognized and relevant professional body
Salary
competitive salaries and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ub.bw
Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3426
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 are typically required for a Head of Student Engagement position at a university in Botswana?
Most universities require a Master's degree in Education, Student Affairs, Psychology, or a related field, with a PhD often preferred for senior roles. Relevant certifications in student counseling or higher education administration from recognized bodies like SAQA or CHE are advantageous. Prior experience in student services or academic administration within Botswana's tertiary education sector is usually essential.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Head of Student Engagement?
Daily duties include overseeing student orientation programs, managing student clubs and societies, coordinating wellness and counseling services, and liaising with academic departments on student retention strategies. You will also handle disciplinary matters, organize leadership development workshops, and represent student interests in university committees. Regular reporting to senior management on student satisfaction metrics is expected.
How does workplace culture in Botswana's public universities affect this role?
The University of Botswana operates within a formal hierarchical structure where respect for seniority and protocol is important. Decision-making often involves extensive consultation with multiple stakeholders, including faculty, student representative councils, and government education bodies. Understanding Setswana cultural values around community and consensus-building will strengthen your effectiveness in this position.
What career progression opportunities exist for someone in this role?
Successful Heads of Student Engagement typically advance to Director-level positions in Student Affairs or Academic Support Services. Some transition into Deputy Registrar or Registrar roles, while others move into policy advisory positions within the Ministry of Education or regional bodies like SADC. International mobility to other African universities or Commonwealth institutions is also possible with accumulated experience.
What employment benefits are standard for senior administrative positions at Botswana public universities?
Benefits generally include competitive pension contributions through the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund or university-specific schemes, medical aid coverage, and generous annual leave entitlements. Housing allowances or subsidized accommodation may be available, along with professional development funding. Contract terms are usually permanent and pensionable after probationary periods.
How should I apply for this position, and what do selection panels in Botswana prioritize?
Applications are typically submitted through the University of Botswana's official careers portal with a detailed CV, certified academic transcripts, and references from previous employers. Selection panels prioritize demonstrated experience in student development, knowledge of Botswana's higher education landscape, and evidence of successful program implementation. Strong interpersonal skills and fluency in English and Setswana are highly valued during interviews.
