About the Role
The Department of Higher Education and Training is seeking a dynamic and experienced individual for the position of Director-General based in Pretoria. This pivotal role is essential for steering the vision and strategic direction of the Department, ensuring that South Africa’s post-school education and training system aligns with national policies and meets the needs of the community. As the Head of Department, the successful candidate will play a crucial role in shaping educational frameworks and governance, ultimately impacting the lives of countless individuals seeking quality education and training in our diverse nation.
This position not only involves high-level planning and implementation but also requires strong leadership to foster intergovernmental relations and manage partnerships with various education and training institutions. The Director-General will be responsible for advising the Minister on policy and strategic matters, ensuring that the department operates efficiently and transparently. This is a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to public service and the future of education in South Africa.
About the Department
The Department of Higher Education and Training is committed to advancing the post-school education and training landscape in South Africa. Its mission is to provide quality education and enhance access to various educational pathways, including universities, vocational training, and adult education. By working within this department, you will be part of a team that strives to empower individuals through knowledge and skill development, ultimately contributing to the nation’s socio-economic growth.
What You’ll Do
- Plan and implement the Department’s vision and strategic frameworks in compliance with national legislation.
- Advise the Minister on educational policies, strategies, and standards to enhance the post-school education system.
- Lead initiatives to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of policies and governance structures.
- Establish and maintain partnerships with educational institutions and stakeholders.
- Oversight of financial management, ensuring compliance with the Public Finance Management Act and the effective use of departmental resources.
- Represent the Department in various governance structures, including committees and oversight bodies.
- Prepare and present departmental performance reports to the Minister and relevant oversight structures.
What You’ll Need
- A senior certificate and an undergraduate qualification, along with a postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 8) in a relevant field such as Business Administration or Public Management.
- A doctoral degree is preferred but not mandatory.
- Ten years of experience at a senior managerial level.
- Completion of the Nyukela Public Service SMS Pre-entry Programme endorsed by the National School of Government.
- In-depth knowledge of the post-school education and training system, relevant legislation, and public management frameworks.
- Proven leadership capabilities and experience in managing complex organizations or programs.
- Excellent communication and relationship management skills.
- A valid driver’s license is required.
How to Apply
DHET invites applicants to apply online on the New Z83 form by accessing the Departmental Website (click the ‘apply now’ button) or http://z83.ngnscan.co.za/apply
Looking for more South African government jobs? Browse the latest vacancies on JobsSouthAfrica.co.za. If you are applying for the first time, read our Complete Guide to Applying for Government Jobs in South Africa, covering the Z83 form, certified copies, CV format, interview tips and more.
Requirements
A senior certificate, an undergraduate qualification and a postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 8) in Business Administration/Public Management or any other related qualification as recognized by SAQA.Possession of a doctoral degree will be a distinct advantage.
A relevant senior executive management and leadership certificate will be an added advantage.
Ten (10) years of experience at senior managerial level.
Successful completion of the Nyukela Public Service SMS Pre-entry Programmed as endorsed by NSG.
Knowledge of the Post-Schooling Education and Training system as a whole; Knowledge of the Constitution, Public Service Act (PSA) and Regulations, Public Management Act, 2014 (PAMA), Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) (1999 and Regulations, and any other relevant prescript within the system of government.
An understanding of the emerging Higher Education, Science and Innovation (HESI) landscape.
Solid working knowledge of the following: White Paper on PSET; University Education, Skill Development; Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Community Education and Training (CET) legislation and policies; National Development Plan (NDP); Government Programme of Action; and the Human Resource Development Council Strategy.
Advanced knowledge and experience in Public Administration and Public Management; Knowledge of the Auditor-General’s Audit Framework; Extensive experience in leading and managing a large- scale, complex organisation or program is an added advantage; Extensive knowledge and experience in policy research, policy analysis and policy development; A proven track record in conducting monitoring, evaluation and impact assessments; Advanced knowledge in government’s Human Resource Management and Labour related legislation.
Advanced experience in establishing and managing complex relationships and partnerships.
Computer literacy.
Core Competencies: Strategic capability and leadership, solid understanding of the political-administrative interface; Programme and Project management, advanced financial skills, Change management, People Management and Empowerment.
A valid driver’s licence.
Job Duties
The successful candidate will, as the Head of Department, plan, implement, coordinate and communicate the Departmental vision, values, policies, statutory and strategic frameworks in terms of the relevant legislation and advise the Minister in determining policy, strategy, norms and standards as required by the Constitution and all relevant statuses; provide strategic direction to intergovernmental relations, stakeholder support and management of post-school education and training partner institutions and public entities in line with national policy, strategy, norms and standards; provide strategic leadership in monitoring and evaluating policy, governance, risk and compliance in order to achieve planned outcomes and impact for equitable access to, success of and institutional quality of the post-school education and training system, and report on the departmental performance to the Minister and other oversight structures including the Audit and Risk Committee, Parliament, National Treasury, Departments of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) and Performance Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME).The successful candidate will participate in and represent the Department in Governance and Administration structures including the committee for Directors-General (FOSAD) and any other structure as directed by the Minister.
As the Accounting Officer, the successful candidate will, in terms of the PFMA, ensure that the department has and maintains effective, efficient and transparent systems of financial and risk management and internal controls, as well as ensure the efficient, economical and transparent use of the resources 42 of the department; be responsible for the management, including the safeguarding and maintenance of the assets and liabilities, keep full and proper records of the financial affairs of the department and prepare annual financial statements; ensure the administration, implementation and documentation of international instruments relevant to the mandate and work of the Department.
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All shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a relevant competency exercise.
