Senior Officer: Community, Entrepreneurship And Alumni Coordination (3-Year Renewable Contract), Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Department for Education Innovation needed at University of Pretoria/Universiteit van Pretoria

• The incumbent will coordinate and implement activities related to entrepreneurship, internships, community engagement, leadership development, and alumni support within the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (MCFSP).

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Internship placements

• Build and maintain networks with partners to facilitate internship placements across Africa;
• Collaborate with the Career Services Division at UP and the African Careers Network (ACN) to prepare Scholars for the workplace;
• Track and evaluate internship progress and support debriefing sessions;
• Organise career readiness sessions and career days focused on employability and the future of work. 

Community Engagement

• Promote Scholar-led community outreach and give-back initiatives aligned with Program values;
• Support Scholars in conceptualising and implementing impactful community projects;
• Develop and maintain partnerships to facilitate community engagement opportunities;
• Assist with communication and reporting of community activities.

Alumni Tracking and Support

• Track and support Alumni through surveys and engagement initiatives;
• Facilitate collaboration and mentorship between current Scholars and Alumni;
• Coordinate entrepreneurial and professional development opportunities for Alumni.

Leadership Training and Governance Support

• Organise leadership development workshops and Scholars’ Council activities.
• Act as liaison between Scholars and the Program Team.
• Support Scholars’ governance representatives with the implementation of planned activities.

Entrepreneurship Coordination

• Coordinate the MCFSP entrepreneurship programme for Scholars and Alumni;
• Facilitate training, business plan development, and pitch sessions;
• Liaise with stakeholders and finance to manage entrepreneurship fund disbursements;
• Showcase success stories and promote entrepreneurial leadership among Scholars.
• Helping participants with the implementation on the 6 months plan to ensure the appropriate use of funds.

Reporting and Administration

• Prepare monthly and biannual progress reports.
• Manage logistical and financial processes related to engagement and entrepreneurship activities;
• Participate actively in MCFSP team meetings and events.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• A Master’s degree in Entrepreneurship; and

At least three years of relevant work experience in:

• Working with students at a tertiary institution;
• Experience as a tutor, mentor, or student counsellor; and
• Project management.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

• Knowledge of the university environment and student success initiatives;
• Strong entrepreneurship and project management skills;
• Excellent communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills;
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite (including Excel) and report writing;
• A responsible, goal-oriented and positive attitude with the ability to work with diverse stakeholders;
• Leadership and interpersonal skills;
• Self-control and drive;
• Meticulous and responsible attitude.

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

• At least two years of experience managing an externally funded project; and
• A valid driver’s licence.

CLOSING DATE:  30 November 2025