Administrative Officer (3-year renewable contract), Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program,Department for Education Innovation

UP Professional and Support

DEPARTMENT FOR EDUCATION INNOVATION

MASTERCARD FOUNDATION SCHOLARS PROGRAM

POST TITLE: ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER (3-year renewable contract)

PEROMNES POST LEVEL: 010

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy.

The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the provision of administrative coordination and operational support to the Scholars Program by managing records, logistics, communication, and compliance processes that enable the effective delivery of Scholar support services and Program activities.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and maintain electronic and manual filing systems for the Program, in a manner that complies with UP data governance policies, the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA);
• Develop and maintain shared drives as a repository of information and policies for the Programme;
• Undertake general clerical and administrative tasks to support the maintenance of Program information as may be required;
• Manage the Senior Program Manager’s calendar, appointments and scheduling of meetings and that of the Program Manager: Operations as needed;
• Book venues and make all necessary arrangements (such as transportation and meals) for events held internally (within the Department for Education Innovation and the University of Pretoria) and externally;
• Coordinate travel arrangements for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program staff, including visas, tickets, airport transfers, and accommodation;
• Assist and support the finance officer in executing finance operations;
• Process claims for Mastercard Foundation Scholars and UP scholars through the HR system;
• Ensure confidentiality and security of the Scholars Programs’ files and filing system;
• Build and maintain relationships with relevant external stakeholders;
• Assist in coordinating recruitment, onboarding, orientation and Scholar support activities;
• Execute ad hoc tasks delegated from time to time by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Senior Manager and Program Manager to ensure the smooth running of the Program and continuous support to students.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• NQF Level 6 Diploma in Office Administration, such as financial administration or office management, with three (3) years’ work experience in
  • Office/financial administration;
  • Database management;
  • Records management;
  • Events management.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

• Advanced knowledge in Information management;
• Advanced knowledge in event coordination;
• Advanced knowledge in project/financial management;
• Appropriate language and communication skills;
• Computer literacy (MS Word, advanced MS Excel, working in online/cloud environments);
• Ability to work independently but also function effectively as part of a team;
• Ability to produce high-quality work under pressure;
• Excellent interpersonal and conflict management skills;
• Adaptability and decisiveness;
• Organisational skills.

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

• Valid driver’s licence;
• A relevant degree;
• Additional certificates related to the core functions of the post, e.g. Project Management;
• Two (2) years’ working experience in a higher education environment;
• Two (2) years’ working experience in finance.

PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.

The all-inclusive remuneration package for this contract position will be commensurate with the incumbent’s level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines.

Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za and follow the link to Careers@UP.

In applying for this post, please attach:

• A comprehensive CV;
• Certified copies of qualifications;
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.

CLOSING DATE: 29 July 2026

No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

ENQUIRIES: Ms Fikile Mabaso E-Mail: [email protected] for application-related enquiries, and Dr Grace Ramafi, E-Mail: [email protected] for enquiries relating to the post content.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 30 September 2026, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.

In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference will be given, to candidates from under-represented designated groups.

All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials.

By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, credit record, current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions.