Programme Coordinator- University of the Free State (5 Years)
Job Details
- Job Title: Programme Coordinator
- Company: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Department: Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences – Centre for Sustainable Food Systems and
- Development
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
- Job ID: 6672
- Reference Number: 2344
- Employment Type: Contract
- Contract Duration: 5 Years
- Occupational Level: Temporary
- Closing Date: 09 November 2026
- Assumption of Duty: 01 January 2027 or as soon as possible thereafter
- Salary/Allowance: An allowance is payable according to an approved UFS formula. The amount is available on request.
Job Description
The University of the Free State is seeking a suitably qualified academic staff member to take up the position of Programme Coordinator within the Centre for Sustainable Food Systems and Development.
The successful candidate will provide academic leadership and coordinate the development, implementation and management of the Sustainable Food Systems programme. The role involves overseeing curriculum development, coordinating teaching and learning activities, ensuring academic quality assurance, managing programme administration and promoting continuous improvement.
The Programme Coordinator will work closely with academic staff, students and relevant stakeholders to ensure that the programme meets institutional requirements, maintains high academic standards and supports quality teaching, learning and research.
Important: Only full-time, permanent academic staff members from the Centre for Sustainable Food Systems and Development at the University of the Free State will be considered for this position.
Key Responsibilities
Coordinate curriculum processes within the Sustainable Food Systems programme.
Facilitate the development and review of learning programmes in consultation with relevant stakeholders.
Coordinate the development, implementation and monitoring of the programme’s operational plan.
Provide academic coordination and ensure consistency across the different programme modules.
Ensure programme activities comply with University governance requirements, policies and applicable regulatory frameworks.
Coordinate academic quality assurance and continuous improvement processes.
Manage academic administration and liaise with relevant academic and administrative stakeholders.
Promote high-quality scholarship, teaching and learning within the programme.
Coordinate teaching, learning and student-related matters.
Conduct independent research in accordance with the requirements of the substantive academic appointment.
Provide academic input on enquiries, yearbook amendments, academic schedules and timetables.
Participate in Faculty marketing initiatives when required.
Contribute to the development of programme marketing and information materials.
Requirements and Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
A PhD at NQF Level 10 in Food Systems, Consumer Sciences or a related field.
Must be a full-time, permanent member of the academic staff within the Centre for Sustainable Food Systems and Development at the University of the Free State.
Important: This position is restricted to eligible permanent academic staff members within the specified Centre at UFS.
Recommendations
The following will be advantageous:
Relevant experience in academic programme coordination, curriculum development or academic administration.
Experience in academic quality assurance, student-related matters and collaborative academic leadership.
Knowledge of UFS academic governance, institutional policies and curriculum processes.
Required Competencies and Skills
1. Results Orientation
Ability to adapt to frequently changing environments and evolving situations.
Reliability, accountability and the ability to fulfil professional responsibilities.
2. Strategic Thinking
Ability to manage several activities simultaneously.
Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
Ability to maintain high standards and ensure accuracy in work.
3. Business Acumen
– Ability to follow institutional policies, procedures and regulations.
4. Leadership
Ability to take charge of situations, provide direction and contribute ideas.
Strong teamwork and cooperation skills.
Ability to encourage collaboration among colleagues.
5. Building Coalitions
Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
Ability to make decisions through consultation and collaboration.
Ability to work effectively with different stakeholders.