PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

The School of Communication Studies at the NWU (Potchefstroom Campus) has one vacancy for a Lecturer in the vibrant and dynamic field of communication, subject field journalism and media studies.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Teaching and Learning (Primary Focus)

•                          Core Modules: Introductory reporting and news writing, advanced news writing, magazine and feature writing, multimedia storytelling, news design, radio journalism, social media journalism, and AI applications in newsrooms

•                          Programme Scope: Deliver both skills-based and theoretical modules in journalism, commercial journalism (mass media), and corporate journalism (internal communications)

•                          Language Instruction: Teach news writing modules in English; Afrikaans instruction capability essential for programme needs

•                          General Education: Contribute to broader communication studies curriculum as needed

•                          Student Engagement: Provide practical, hands-on instruction that bridges academic theory with industry practice

•                          Mentorship: Advise students on academic and career development

Curriculum Development and Innovation

•                          Lead curricular updates to reflect current industry trends and technological developments

•                          Collaborate on expanding journalism programme offerings across NWU campuses

•                          Integrate authentic learning experiences that connect students with real newsroom environments

•                          Develop and maintain current study guides and module materials

Research and Scholarly Activities

•                          Pursue research in journalism, media studies, or related communication fields

•                          Collaborate on research projects with colleagues across the School and Faculty

•                          Contribute to academic publications and conference presentations

•                          Support student research initiatives

Service and Administration

•                          Institutional Service: Participate in department, school, and university committees as assigned

•                          Community Engagement: Contribute to community-based journalism initiatives and public media literacy efforts

•                          Assessment: Manage student evaluation, marking, and academic progress monitoring

•                          Administrative Tasks: Handle module administration, record-keeping, and reporting requirements

•                          A master’s degree (NQF level 9) in Communication with specialisation in Journalism.

•                          Alternative qualifications will be considered: Master’s degrees in media studies, Digital Communication, or closely related fields with demonstrable journalism focus.

•                          A minimum of three (3) years’ practical experience as a journalist.

•                          Proficient news writing and editing skills in English.

ADDED ADVANTAGES:

•                          Membership with SACOMM (South African Communication Association).

•                          Previous teaching experience at a higher education level.

•                          Research experience and publications in journalism/media studies.

•                          5 years of journalism experience with editorial or management responsibilities.

•                          Experience in broadcast journalism and editorial management.

•                          Proficient news writing and editing skills in Afrikaans (essential for serving our bilingual student population).

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

•                          Digital Journalism Skills: Proficiency in multimedia storytelling, social media journalism, data visualisation and analysis, news design,

•                          and emerging technologies in newsrooms.

•                          Teaching Technology: Experience with learning management systems (preferably eFundi or similar platforms).

•                          Industry Knowledge: Current understanding of journalism ethics, media law, and industry trends.

•                          AI and Innovation: Familiarity with artificial intelligence applications in modern newsrooms.

KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

•                          Collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills.

•                          Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

•                          Commitment to ethical principles in journalism and education.

•                          Enthusiasm for student mentorship and academic leadership.

REMUNERATION:

The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.

ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO:                    Prof. Lida Holtzhausen on 018 299 1645

ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Mr. Byron Louw on 018 285 2304

CLOSING DATE:                                                                                                              30 September 2025

PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES:                                                            As soon as possible

Kindly take note: applications must be submitted online through the official NWU vacancy website. Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

The University subscribes to and applies the principles of Employment Equity (EE) Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the EE Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.

The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.

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