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 Lecturer in Commercial Law in the Department of Law and Criminal Justice , under the School of Management Sciences and Law. The Lecturer in Commercial Law is responsible for undertaking independent teaching and research in Commercial Law or related areas and make independent contributions to professional practice and/or expertise. The successful candidate will also coordinate or lead the related activities as appropriate to the Commercial Law discipline and undertake administrative activities of the University.
Job Summary
- Employer: University of Botswana
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Education
- Salary: competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications
- Closing Date: 2026-09-24
Key Responsibilities
- (i) Teach undergraduate and graduate level courses in at least two of the following: Business Associations; Tax Law; Insolvency Law; Contract Law; Banking Law; and Legal Writing and Research Methods. The Department reserves the right to allocate other courses in addition to those outlined above
- (ii) Supervise post graduate and undergraduate student’s projects as need may arise
- (iii) Participate in the academic, governance and social engagement in Law or related field
- (iv) Develop, update, and deliver undergraduate and possibly some graduate courses
- (v) Design and administer assessments that accurately measure student learning outcomes
- (vi) Present scholarly articles at national and international seminars and conferences
- (vii) Conduct research and participate in research teams and collaborative projects
- (viii) Participate in external research in efforts to boost the standing of the university as required
- (ix) Assist with organizing faculty/ university symposium and conferences of national importance
- (x) Engage in continuous professional development to stay current in both academic and professional realms locally
- (xi) Participate in the identification and mitigation of operational risks
- (xii) Collaborate with relevant internal and external stakeholders as needed to effectively deliver duties as defined
- (xiii) Comply with relevant regulations and legislations
- (xiv) Write and submit written manuscripts for possible publishing
- (xv) Perform any other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned by the Head of School/Departmental Chairperson.
Requirements
- A minimum of a relevant PhD/Doctorate in Law
- Show evidence of engagement in research
- Evidence of governance and social engagement as well as teaching experience at a University or comparable institution will be added advantages.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders
- Understanding of teaching and principles and practices
- Understanding of research methodologies, tools and principles
- Registration or eligibility for registration with Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA) or a relevant and recognized professional body is required.
Salary
competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ub.bw
REF Code: IRC 3531 | Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3531
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 do I need to become a Lecturer in Commercial Law at the University of Botswana?
Typically a Master's degree in Law (LLM) with a specialisation in commercial law is required, though a PhD is often preferred for permanent posts. In Botswana, the University of Botswana also values prior teaching or research experience, and registration with the Botswana Law Society may add weight. Candidates without a PhD may be hired on a probationary basis and encouraged to pursue doctoral studies.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Commercial Law lecturer in Botswana?
You will deliver lectures and tutorials, set and grade assessments, and supervise student research projects at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Additionally, you are expected to conduct research and publish in accredited journals, participate in departmental administration, and contribute to community engagement activities. Timetabling and student consultations are also routine parts of the role.
What is the typical work culture and expectations for lecturers at Botswana universities?
The academic environment in Botswana values collegiality, respect for hierarchy, and adherence to institutional procedures. There is an expectation of punctuality and regular attendance, as well as active participation in departmental meetings and committees. The academic year runs from August to May, so leave and research time must be planned around semester cycles.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Commercial Law lecturer in Botswana?
The typical progression path is from Lecturer to Senior Lecturer, then to Associate Professor and full Professor, based on research output, teaching evaluations, and service. Promotion usually requires a PhD, a strong publication record, and successful supervision of postgraduate students. In Botswana, there are also opportunities to move into administrative roles like Head of Department or Dean of Faculty.
What benefits are typically offered to academic staff at the University of Botswana?
Academic staff in Botswana generally receive a medical aid contribution, a pension or retirement fund, and paid annual and sick leave. You may also be entitled to housing allowance or subsidised housing, as well as research and conference travel grants. The University of Botswana typically provides a supportive package, but specifics depend on the contract and experience.
How should I apply and what do employers in Botswana look for in a Commercial Law lecturer?
Applications are usually submitted through the University of Botswana's official recruitment portal or via advertised call for applications, and you must include a detailed CV, certified copies of certificates, and a cover letter. Employers in Botswana look for relevant LLM or PhD qualifications, demonstrable teaching experience, a clear research agenda, and familiarity with Botswana's legal system. They also value good communication skills and a willingness to engage with the local academic and legal communities.
