Job Summary
- Employer: University of Botswana
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Education
- Salary: The University offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Closing Date: 2026-10-22
Key Responsibilities
- Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in Computer Science such as Discrete Structures I and II, Theory of Computation and related areas
- Supervise both undergraduate and graduate student research projects
- Conduct research in Computer Science and also complement existing research activities in the area
- Contribute to the development of and implementation of university, faculty and school level strategies, policies, plans, and procedures
- Provide good disciplinary knowledge and ensure that use a range of learning practices
- Develop, update, and deliver undergraduate and possibly some graduate courses
- Design and administer assessments that accurately measure student learning outcomes
- Present scholarly articles at national and international seminars and conferences
- Develop portfolio of creative and professional work and participate in competitions to showcase contribution
- Facilitate research capability development at community level
- Contribute to the development of research proposals and implementation of projects
- Participate in external research in efforts to boost the standing of the university/ institute as required
- Participate in the identification and mitigation of operational risks
- Collaborate with relevant internal and external stakeholders as needed to effectively deliver duties as defined
- Assist with organizing faculty/ university symposium and conferences of national importance and perform any other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned by the Head of School/Departmental Chairperson
Requirements
- A PhD in Computer Science or a relevant related discipline
- A Master’s Degree in Computer Science or a relevant related field
- A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a relevant discipline with at least a 2(i) pass or equivalent
- show evidence of engagement in research
Salary
The University offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
How to Apply
Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3551
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 to become a Lecturer in Computer Science at a university in Botswana?
A minimum of a Master's degree in Computer Science or a closely related field is usually required, though a PhD is often preferred for permanent positions. Relevant industry certifications such as Cisco CCNA, AWS, or Microsoft Azure can strengthen your application. Prior teaching experience or published research is highly valued by institutions like the University of Botswana.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Computer Science Lecturer in Botswana?
Daily tasks include preparing and delivering lectures, supervising student projects and dissertations, setting and marking assessments, and conducting research. You will also participate in departmental meetings, curriculum development, and community engagement activities. Many lecturers also mentor students and supervise practical sessions in computer labs.
How does the academic work culture in Botswana differ from other countries, and what is expected of lecturers?
The academic culture in Botswana emphasizes respect for hierarchy and collaborative relationships with colleagues and students. Punctuality and participation in university governance structures, such as faculty boards and committees, are expected. There is also growing pressure to balance teaching excellence with research output and community service.
What career progression opportunities exist for Computer Science Lecturers in Botswana?
Career progression typically follows the ranks from Lecturer to Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, and eventually Professor, based on research publications, teaching performance, and service contributions. Opportunities exist to move into administrative roles such as Head of Department or Dean. Some lecturers also transition into consultancy or industry collaboration roles.
What benefits are typically offered to full-time lecturers at public universities in Botswana?
Benefits usually include competitive pension schemes such as the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund, medical aid coverage, and generous annual leave allowances. Subsidized accommodation or housing allowances may be available, along with research grants and sabbatical opportunities. Specific packages vary by institution and are often negotiated at appointment.
How should I apply for a Lecturer position in Computer Science in Botswana, and what do employers look for?
Applications are typically submitted through official university portals or advertised positions in local newspapers and the Public Service website. Employers look for a strong academic record, evidence of teaching competence, research potential, and alignment with national development priorities such as ICT and innovation. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and include verifiable references from academic or professional contacts.