PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

This position is initiated by Setswana National Unit (SEFALA) in collaboration with North West University. The successful candidate will be responsible for the overall management and leadership of the Unit, including development of annual, operational and business plans and guidelines in the development of dictionaries. S/he will also be responsible for the final editing and certification of dictionaries, manuscripts, financial management, people and resource management, stakeholder engagement and producing regular reports on the core mandate of the Unit (dictionary production). In addition s/he will manage the budget and all financials of the Unit. This position will provide strategic support in line with the mandate of PanSALB and Sefala Board of directors in collaboration with the Host Institution.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1.     Implementation of strategic mandate working on developing Setswana dictionaries:

• Conceptualise and manage strategies for the implementation of the mandate of PanSALB and the Board of Directors.
• Advance all strategic objectives of operations of the Unit,
• Board governance and management of the Unit.
• Liaise between the Unit and the host Institution in line with the
• Board resolutions with regards to processes.
• Oversee and manage administration of the Unit.
• Identify and manage possible research projects for the Unit
• Oversee Dictionary development projects and review support process in response to COVID-19 and develop terminology.

2.     Strategic relationship building and operational performances:

• Work in collaboration with other NLU’s language stakeholders, promote and engage with internal and external stakeholder and various Government Departments.

3.     Manage the administration of operational duties:

• Responsible for all administrative tasks with regards to the above.

4.     Managing the office personnel:

• Appoint and capacitate the office staff and ensure that work is done.

5.     Do final editing of all dictionary work:

• Finalise all work done.

6.     Liaise with publishers and auditing firms:

• Communicate with publishers and auditors, report accordingly and administer payments thereof.

• An Honours degree (NQF level 8) in African Languages, Linguistics or Applied Language Studies with focus on Setswana.
• Membership with the National Lexicography Units (NLU) forum.
• A minimum of Six (6) years’ experience in editing Setswana works and relevant computer skills. 

RECOMMENDATIONS / ADDED ADVANTAGE:

• A Masters’ (NQF level 9) in African Languages, Linguistics or Applied Language Studies with focus on Setswana.
• Some established publication record.
• Registration with Tshwanelex.

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Project and Finance management.
• Strategic management skills.
• Management and communication within a higher institution.
• Experience in understanding of and familiarity with the development of dictionary and Lemmatization as a core business.
• Understanding of issues on legislation, companies, processes and policies.
• Sound understanding of lexicography, terminology development, translation and editing and passion for Setswana language and development thereof.
• Ability communicate, lead by example and inspire confidence.
• Ability to mobilize and inspire others towards shared goals.
• Demonstrates effective communication skills, negotiation skills, persuasive skills, good interpersonal skills, and well-reasoned decision-making ability.
• Think strategically and operationalize this thinking into plans and projects.
• An individual who can operate confidently and sensitively across cultures and other languages divides and the ability to operate confidently and sensitively with respect to issues of diversity, transformation and equity.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Team leader within a group.
• Sound relations with colleagues and authority.
• Able to work independently.
• Ethical principles and academic integrity.

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. Herculene Kotze, Tel: 018 299 1552

ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Mr Zenyo Seboko, Tel: 018 299 4951

CLOSING DATE: 16 October 2026

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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