Job Description

Job Title
Short Learning Programme Coordinator: (20 Hours per week) (3-year contract) (post level 9) (Job ID: 6270)
Organizational Unit
University of the Free State -> Faculty of Humanities -> Department South African Sign Language and Deaf Studies
Contract Type
Contract
Occupational Level
Junior Management
Location
Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)

Closing Date
19/10/2025
Description

KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website:

https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll

- Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered. The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.

INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!

To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:

A detailed Curriculum Vitae. Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation). A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals). Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only).

Duties and responsibilities:

Coordinate and manage the development, implementation, and evaluation of face-to-face and online Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) in South African Sign Language (SASL) and Deaf Studies. Develop, teach, and coordinate Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) and undergraduate modules in South African Sign Language (SASL) and Deaf Studies. Deliver engaging academic content using blended learning methodologies and digital tools such as Blackboard and Kovsie Phahamisa to support inclusive, high-impact teaching and learning. Facilitate the design and continuous renewal of SLP curricula to ensure academic quality, compliance with institutional standards, and relevance to community and industry needs. Provide academic leadership in the administration of SLPs, including budgeting, invoicing, scheduling, marketing, and stakeholder engagement. Serve as a liaison between the department, internal university structures, and external partners to enhance the visibility and sustainability of SLP offerings. Oversee student support and mentorship in SLPs and undergraduate modules, fostering inclusive and culturally responsive learning environments. Ensure quality assurance and integrity in teaching, learning, and assessment practices. Contribute to community engagement initiatives, with a focus on Deaf awareness and inclusive education. Collaborate on departmental research projects and contribute to scholarly activities such as academic writing, conference participation, and curriculum innovation. Demonstrate proficiency in South African Sign Language (advanced level), with a strong understanding of Deaf culture and the ability to integrate SASL in teaching and programme coordination. Lead the development of marketing materials and promotional strategies for academic programmes, ensuring effective communication with internal and external stakeholders. Initiate and support the development of new SLP programmes, aligned with institutional goals and the evolving needs of the Deaf community and broader society.

Inherent requirements:

Bachelor's degree on NQF Level 7 in South African Sign Language. Advanced proficiency in South African Sign Language, with practical experience in SASL instruction and Deaf Studies. Minimum three (3) years' relevant working experience relating to the duties and responsibilities.

Recommendations:

A postgraduate degree in South African Sign Language. At least 4-5 years of relevant experience in the higher education sector, including teaching (Lecturing) and programme coordination. Demonstrate experience teaching/lecturing modules to large student/participant cohorts (up to 400 students, both online and face-to-face). At least 4-5 years' experience in managing and coordinating Short Learning Programmes, both face-to-face and online. Experience in curriculum development, assessment moderation, and digital learning environments (e.g., Blackboard, Kovsie Phahamisa). Strong administrative, financial, and project management skills, including experience with PeopleSoft, SharePoint, and Microsoft Office tools. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and SASL. Specialised training in curriculum development and innovation, including training in and knowledge of UFS systems and SLP policy procedures. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team setting, show leadership, and take initiative in developing new academic or community-focused programmes. Proven record in developing and designing marketing materials and outreach strategies for Short Learning Programmes and academic events. Advanced experience in short learning programme coordination and development (minimum 3 years) Advanced experience working in a Higher Education environment (minimum 3 years)
Competencies

Required competencies:

Results Orientated:

The ability to set high standards, establish tough goals, and to work to achieve success. The ability to deal calmly and effectively with high stress situations.

o Strategic Thinking:

The ability to plan work and to follow plans. The ability to be creative and open-minded when addressing work issues.

o Business Acumen:

The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations. Proficient in using MS Office.

o Leading:

The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others. The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.

o Building Coalitions:

The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations. The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.

Assumption of duties:

As soon as possible

Closing date:

19 October 2025

Salary:

The annual remuneration package, including benefits is R262 500.87 - R319 107.00 per annum, depending on the budget available for the position, relevant work experience and qualifications.

Fringe benefits:

(Subject to specific conditions): pension scheme, medical aid scheme, group life insurance, housing allowance, leave and sick leave, service bonus and study benefits.


Enquiries:

For enquiries, please feel free to contact

051 401 7659

or email

SejanamaneP@ufs.ac.za

or

Recruit@ufs.ac.za

Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 2558 / 2876 / 9813 for assistance.

General:

The UFS is a designated employer and is committed to the pursuit of excellence, diversity, and redress in achieving its equity targets in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets. Preference will be given to candidates from the under-represented designated groups including candidates with disabilities. Our Employment Equity Plan is available at:

EEA13-UFS EE Plan 1 March 2025_28 Feb 2026.pdf

The University processes personal information in line with its obligations under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and any personal information provided to the University will be treated as confidential and processed in accordance with the rights provided to data subjects under POPIA.

The University reserves the right not to fill the post. The UFS will only consider applications of candidates who meet all the inherent requirements of the position. Applications that are incomplete will not be considered. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Should you not be contacted within six weeks of the closing date for applications, you may assume that your application was unsuccessful.