Government EntityNorth West University
    LocationMahikeng, North West
    Reference Numbernwu_004496
    SalaryThe annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.
    Centre / LocationMafikeng - Capital City
    Closing DateJuly 17, 2026
    Source and Applicationnwu.ci.hr

    Industry: Education & Training

    Job category: University and Academy

    Contract: Permanent

    NORTH-WEST UNIVERSITY (MAHIKENG CAMPUS) FACULTY OF EDUCATION–SCHOOL FOR PSYCHO - SOCIAL EDUCATION POSITION NUMBER: M000131 VACANCY: JUNIOR LECTURER/LECTURER - EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT AND EDUCATION: SETSWANA HOME LANGUAGE PEROMNES GRADE: A8 EMPLOYMENT TYPE: PERMANENT APPOINTMENT

    Requirements

    A bachelor of education in foundation phase education with Setswana as a Home Language, or an equivalent qualification with clear evidence of a Setswana language focus and rerouting to Early Childhood Development and Education (NQF Level 7).A minimum of two (2) years’ teaching experience in ECDE practice, specifically teaching Setswana at Home Language level in an ECDE school environment.For Junior Lecturer:A Bachelor of Education Honours degree in ECDE or an equivalent qualification, preferably with a FP Setswana language focus. (NQF Level 8).For Lecturer:A master’s degree in ECDE or an equivalent qualification with a FP Setswana language focus (NQF Level 9).Must be registered with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).ADDED ADVANTAGESA minimum of two (2) years’ experience of lecturing in HEI’s on a full- or part-time basis.KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:Demonstrates deep understanding of the Foundation Phase language curriculum (Grades R–3), with specific expertise in Setswana as Home Language (HL) and First Additional Language (FAL). Applies age-appropriate pedagogical strategies to support oral language development, emergent literacy, and early reading and writing. (Essential)Plans and facilitates engaging, developmentally appropriate Setswana language learning experiences for pre-service Foundation Phase teachers, using contact-mode delivery and incorporating principles of play-based and culturally responsive instruction. (Essential)Supports language acquisition and literacy development through effective use of Setswana and English as Languages of Learning, Teaching, and Assessment (LoLTA), and models inclusive strategies for teaching multilingual learners in diverse classroom contexts. (Essential)Selects and uses a variety of teaching aids and teaching strategies for effective literacy education to prepare pre-service FP teachers for effective literacy instruction. (Essential)Designs and implements a range of formative and summative assessment strategies to monitor pre-service teachers’ grasp of Setswana language pedagogy and to support responsive, differentiated instruction. (Essential)Demonstrates the ability to responsibly and effectively integrate AI tools to enhance Setswana language teaching, learning, and assessment. Guides pre-service teachers to critically evaluate AI-generated content, use AI for lesson planning or resource creation, and foster digital literacy in young learners. (Essential)Uses digital platforms and online learning tools effectively to support Setswana literacy instruction and professional development in contact-mode settings. (Recommended)Contributes to community-based initiatives and partnerships aimed at promoting early literacy and language development in Setswana-speaking communities, involving caregivers, teachers, and local schools. (Essential)Demonstrates proficiency in using computers for academic and administrative purposes, including word processing, presentation software, spreadsheets, learning management systems, and online communication platforms. (Essential)Holds a valid driver’s licence and demonstrates the ability to travel independently to schools, community sites, and teaching practice placements across diverse geographic areas. (Essential)BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIESDemonstrates genuine enthusiasm for working with young children and foundational language development concepts; committed to improving Setswana teaching and learning at the earliest levels through culturally responsive and developmentally appropriate practices. (Essential)Acts with honesty, fairness, and ethical responsibility in teaching, assessment, research, and community engagement. Upholds confidentiality, academic integrity, and respectful engagement with diverse linguistic and cultural communities. (Essential)Shows flexibility in adapting to changing educational environments, diverse student needs, technological shifts, and institutional priorities. Maintains professionalism and effectiveness under pressure, especially in multilingual and resource-constrained contexts. (Essential)Builds positive working relationships with colleagues, students, schools, and communities. Collaborates effectively within teams, contributes to joint initiatives, and supports shared goals in language education and early literacy development. (Essential)Continuously seeks professional growth, reflects critically on practice, and engages with current trends in Setswana language pedagogy, early childhood development, and educational technology. (Essential)Demonstrates creativity and initiative in addressing teaching challenges, curriculum design, and community engagement, particularly in under-resourced or linguistically diverse environments. (Essential)Values diversity and demonstrate awareness and respect for South Africa’s multilingual and multicultural classrooms, promoting inclusive practices in Setswana language instruction and literacy development. (Essential)Communicates clearly and professionally—both orally and in writing—with students, colleagues, and external stakeholders. Adapts communication style to suit different audiences, including multilingual learners and community partners. (Essential)Willing to explore, experiment with, and integrate new technologies—including AI, digital tools, and multimodal resources—to enhance Setswana language teaching, learner engagement, and pre-service teacher preparation. (Recommended)Demonstrates personal responsibility and logistical readiness for travel to teaching practice sites, including possession of a valid driver’s licence and willingness to engage with schools and communities in varied locations. (Essential).ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Prof. Thabo Makhalemele on 016 910 3075ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Ms. Rouzen Slambert on 018 299 4750CLOSING DATE: 17 July 2026PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES: As soon as possibleKindly 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 of the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.It all starts here ®

    Duties

    PURPOSE OF THE POSITIONThe purpose of this position is to contribute meaningfully to teaching, research, and community engagement within the field of Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE). The focus is on the teaching of Setswana as both a Home Language (HL) and First Additional Language (FAL) in the Bachelor of Education (BEd) Foundation Phase (FP) programme. The incumbent will be responsible for facilitating contact-mode learning at the Mahikeng campus across all undergraduate levels (first to fourth year). In addition to academic responsibilities, the role requires a demonstrated interest in community engagement initiatives that promote language development and early literacy in diverse educational contexts. Candidates should also show a clear interest in pursuing, or show potential for pursuing, a postgraduate qualification with a specific emphasis on Setswana language instruction in the Foundation Phase.KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:1. TeachingTeaching undergraduate courses in Setswana as Home Language (HL) and First Additional Language (FAL) within the Foundation Phase programme. Delivery is in contact mode at the Mahikeng campus across all year levels.2. Research and supervisionAdvancing own qualification at postgraduate level, particularly related to Setswana language teaching.3. Programme developmentContribute to the advancement of Setswana as an academic language4. AdministrationPerforming administrative duties, including use of the NWU Learning Management System and participation in departmental processes.5. CEParticipating in community engagement initiatives that promote early literacy, language development, and inclusive education in Setswana-speaking communities.6. WIL Supporting Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) through student supervision, school-based practice, and mentoring.

    Source / Circular Reference

    nwu.ci.hr