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Company: University of Pretoria
Location: South Africa
Closing Date: 29 July 2026
The University of Pretoria (UP) is currently inviting qualified, motivated, and detail-oriented professionals to apply for the position of Administrative Officer within the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Hosted under the Department for Education Innovation, this full-time contract role offers an exciting career opportunity for higher education administrative professionals seeking to support student development, manage program logistics, and ensure seamless operational efficiency in 2026.
Company Overview
The University of Pretoria is one of South Africa’s premier research-intensive higher education institutions. Driven by a strong commitment to quality, innovation, excellence, and diversity, UP maintains a competitive advantage in international science, technology, and academic development.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UP plays a vital role in providing access to quality higher education, nurturing leadership potential, and empowering students to drive transformative change across Africa.
Job Overview and Purpose
This position (Job ID: 26453) is a full-time, temporary 3-year renewable contract based at the Department for Education Innovation in Pretoria, placed at Peromnes Post Level 010.
The primary purpose of the Administrative Officer is to provide comprehensive administrative coordination and operational support to the Scholars Program. The incumbent manages records, logistics, stakeholder communications, and regulatory compliance processes that enable the effective delivery of scholar support services and overall program activities.
Key Responsibilities
Administrative and Information Management
The successful candidate will develop and maintain electronic and manual filing systems for the Program, strictly adhering to UP data governance policies, the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), and the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA). They will also establish and maintain shared drives as a centralized repository of information and policies for the Programme, perform general clerical tasks, and ensure complete confidentiality and security regarding all Scholars Programs’ files.
Executive Support and Travel Logistics
Daily duties involve managing calendar schedules, appointments, and meeting coordination for both the Senior Program Manager and the Program Manager: Operations. The officer will book venues and arrange logistics—including transportation and meals—for internal and external events hosted by the Department for Education Innovation and UP. Additionally, the role is responsible for coordinating full travel arrangements for program staff, including visas, flights, airport transfers, and accommodation.
Financial and Scholar Support
The incumbent will assist the Finance Officer in executing routine financial operations and process claims for Mastercard Foundation Scholars and UP scholars through the HR system. They will build and maintain productive relationships with external stakeholders, assist in coordinating recruitment, onboarding, orientation, and scholar support activities, and execute delegated ad hoc tasks to ensure continuous student support.
Minimum Requirements and Preferences
Mandatory Requirements
Applicants must hold an NQF Level 6 Diploma in Office Administration, such as Financial Administration or Office Management. Additionally, candidates must have at least three years of practical work experience spanning office or financial administration, database management, records management, and events management.
Required Competencies
Candidates require advanced knowledge in information management, event coordination, and project or financial management. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are necessary, along with high computer literacy in MS Word, advanced MS Excel, and cloud environments. The role demands an ability to work independently or in a team, deliver high-quality work under pressure, demonstrate adaptability and decisiveness, and apply strong interpersonal, conflict management, and organizational skills.
Added Advantages
Possessing a valid driver’s licence, a relevant Bachelor’s degree, or additional certificates in core functions like Project Management will work in your favor. Preference is also given to applicants with two years of working experience in a higher education environment or two years of experience in finance.
Salary, Location, and Employment Terms
This is a full-time, temporary position offered on a 3-year renewable contract based at the Department for Education Innovation at the University of Pretoria. The all-inclusive remuneration package will be commensurate with the successful candidate’s level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines. Specific monetary figures are not explicitly disclosed in the vacancy notice.
Step-by-Step Application Process and Required Documents
Application Steps
To apply, visit the official University of Pretoria portal at www.up.ac.za and navigate to the Careers@UP link. Locate Job ID 26453 for the Administrative Officer post, complete the online application form, upload all required documentation, and submit your profile before the closing date of 29 July 2026.
Required Documents
When applying online, you must attach a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae, certified copies of your qualifications, and full contact details (names, email addresses, and phone numbers) for three professional referees whom UP has explicit permission to contact.
Important Notes and Timeline
All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process. Applications that do not meet the minimum requirements or arrive after the closing date will not be considered.
For application-related enquiries, you may email Ms Fikile Mabaso at [email protected]. For enquiries regarding the post content, email Dr Grace Ramafi at [email protected]. If you have not heard from the University of Pretoria by 30 September 2026, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the application deadline for this position?
The closing date for all applications is 29 July 2026. Late submissions will not be reviewed.
What qualifications do I need to qualify for this post?
You need an NQF Level 6 Diploma in Office Administration, Financial Administration, or Office Management, along with 3 years of experience in related admin and management functions.
Is this a permanent academic post?
No, it is a full-time support staff post offered on a 3-year renewable contract, subject to UP performance and policy guidelines.
How will I know if my application was unsuccessful?
If you receive no communication from the University of Pretoria by 30 September 2026, you should consider your application unsuccessful.
Conclusion
The Administrative Officer position within the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers an outstanding opportunity for seasoned administrative professionals to contribute to student success at the University of Pretoria. Prepare your CV, references, and certified qualifications early to ensure your application is submitted on the Careers@UP portal before 29 July 2026.
