An experienced academic staff member currently working in a recognised higher education institution.
Job Summary
- Employer: Assessment Council of Lesotho (ACoL)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Maseru, Lesotho
- Category: Education
- Closing Date: 2026-10-20
Key Responsibilities
- providing strategic direction and oversight to ACoL;
- approving and monitoring institutional policies and strategies;
- overseeing the Council’s finances, investments, assets and operations;
- approving budgets and monitoring organisational performance;
- promoting effective risk management, internal control and accountability;
- safeguarding the integrity, credibility and quality of national assessment and certification systems; and
- ensuring that ACoL fulfils its statutory mandate.
Requirements
- possess at least a degree/ relevant qualification from a recognised institution;
- demonstrate knowledge and experience relevant to the position applied for;
- have a sound understanding of corporate governance and strategic oversight;
- preferably have completed recognised corporate governance or board leadership training;
- demonstrate integrity, independence, objectivity and sound judgement;
- have no criminal record;
- not have been declared insolvent or disqualified from holding public or corporate office;
- disclose any actual, potential or perceived conflict of interest; and
- be willing and available to attend Governing Body and committee meetings and undertake related responsibilities.
How to Apply
Address: P.O. Box 507, Maseru, Lesotho. Applications may also be submitted electronically to: examsad
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications are typically required for an experienced academic staff position at a Lesotho assessment body like ACoL?
A Master's degree in Education, Curriculum Studies, or a relevant subject area is usually expected, with a PhD often preferred for senior roles. Professional teaching qualifications and at least 5-7 years of experience in curriculum development, assessment design, or examination administration are commonly required. Membership with the Lesotho Council of Education or similar professional bodies strengthens your application.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an academic staff member at an assessment council?
Daily tasks include developing and reviewing examination papers, standardizing marking schemes, training markers, and analyzing assessment data to improve educational standards. You will also participate in curriculum alignment workshops, moderate subject committees, and contribute to policy discussions on national qualifications. Occasional travel to regional centers for monitoring and quality assurance is common.
How does workplace culture and hierarchy function in Lesotho's education sector?
Lesotho's education sector values respect for seniority and collaborative decision-making through committees and subject panels. Punctuality, formal communication protocols, and adherence to government procedures are important, reflecting the public service environment. Building relationships through professional networks and demonstrating commitment to educational improvement are highly regarded.
What career progression opportunities exist for academic staff in Lesotho's assessment and education sector?
Progression typically moves from subject officer to senior examiner, then to principal examiner or curriculum specialist, with potential advancement to director-level positions. Opportunities exist to transition into policy advisory roles, university lecturing, or regional assessment organizations like the Southern African Development Community bodies. Continuous professional development and publication in educational research accelerate advancement.
What benefits are typically offered to full-time academic staff in Lesotho's public education institutions?
Standard benefits usually include pension contributions through the Public Officers' Defined Contribution Pension Fund, medical aid schemes, and generous annual leave allowances aligned with public service regulations. Professional development funding, study leave provisions, and travel allowances for official duties are commonly provided. Specific arrangements vary by employer and employment grade.
How should I apply for an experienced academic position, and what do Lesotho employers prioritize in candidates?
Submit applications through official channels such as the Public Service Commission or directly to the institution, including certified copies of qualifications, a detailed CV, and traceable referees from the education sector. Employers prioritize demonstrated expertise in assessment methodology, knowledge of Lesotho's education system including the Lesotho General Certificate of Secondary Education, and proven integrity in handling confidential materials. Strong communication skills in both English and Sesotho are advantageous.