The Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) was created by an Act of Parliament, the MUBAS Act of 2019 as an entrepreneurial university specialising in Business and Applied Sciences. The University would like to fill this position with a suitably qualified candidate at a time when it is globally repositioning itself to run in compliance with international norms of scholarship and a business culture that characterises a modern university.
Job Summary
- Employer: Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Blantyre, Malawi
- Category: Education
- Closing Date: 2026-10-25
Key Responsibilities
- Develop or review appropriate academic quality assurance and enhancement policy, strategies, procedures and rules through senate for approval by Council from time to time.
- Lead in shaping the quality management framework and the academic regulatory framework to promote academic standards of the University awards and the quality of student academic experience across the university.
- Enforce effective and intergrated academic quality management processes and procedures compliance in schools, departments, centres, directorates, institutes, units and any other organs across the university.
- Lead in mantaining and working with quality assurance instruments, frameworks or related legal instruments from national and internatioanl accreditation and professional bodies.
- Provide guidance and direction on quality assurance matters to the University academic officers.
- Mobilize resources for quality assurance and monitor their effective and efficient utilization.
Requirements
- Minimum of a Doctorate degree in a relevant field from an institution accredited or recognised under the National Council for Higher Education Act.
- Must be a senior academic.
- Have at least 3 years of management experience in an academic institution.
How to Apply
Apply by email: vacancies@mubas.ac.mw
Address: Private Bag 303
Address: Private Bag 303
About the Company
The Malawi University of Business and Applied Science (MUBAS) is a public university based in the city of Blantyre, Malawi. In 2025, 320 students graduated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications are typically required for a Head of Academic Quality Assurance position at a Malawian public university like MUBAS?
A minimum of a Master's degree in Education, Quality Management, or a relevant academic field is usually required, though a PhD is often preferred for senior leadership roles. Candidates typically need 5-10 years of experience in higher education quality assurance, curriculum development, or academic administration. Professional certifications in quality management, such as ISO standards or regional accreditation training, strengthen applications significantly.
What are the day-to-day responsibilities of a Head of Academic Quality Assurance at a Malawian university?
Daily tasks include coordinating internal and external quality audits, reviewing academic program accreditation submissions, and facilitating staff training on quality assurance standards. You will also prepare reports for university senate and the National Council for Higher Education, while liaising with faculties to ensure compliance with institutional policies. Regular meetings with department heads and monitoring of student assessment practices form a core part of the routine.
How does the work culture and employer expectations differ in Malawian public universities compared to private institutions?
Public universities like MUBAS operate within government frameworks, meaning hierarchical decision-making, adherence to civil service protocols, and involvement in national education policy implementation. Expectations include maintaining political neutrality, navigating bureaucratic processes for approvals, and contributing to national development goals through quality education. Work-life balance can be structured around academic calendars, though peak periods around accreditation visits demand intensive commitment.
What career progression opportunities exist for quality assurance professionals in Malawi's higher education sector?
Progression typically moves from Quality Assurance Officer to Senior Officer, then to Head or Director level, with potential advancement to Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) or Registrar positions. Regional mobility within SADC universities and consulting opportunities with the Malawi National Council for Higher Education or international bodies like the African Quality Assurance Network expand prospects. Publishing research on quality assurance and pursuing doctoral studies accelerates advancement into executive leadership.
What benefits are typically included in senior academic administrative positions at Malawian public universities?
Benefits usually include contributory pension schemes through the Public Service Pension Fund, medical aid coverage for employee and dependents, and generous annual leave entitlements often exceeding 30 days. Housing allowances or subsidized university accommodation may be available, along with research grants and conference attendance support. Specific packages vary by employer and are negotiated based on experience and qualifications.
What should I emphasize when applying for a Head of Academic Quality Assurance role at a Malawian university, and how is the selection process typically conducted?
Emphasize demonstrated experience with institutional accreditation processes, familiarity with Malawi's National Qualifications Framework, and measurable improvements you have implemented in academic standards. The selection process usually involves shortlisting by a panel, written assessments on quality assurance knowledge, and interviews with university council representatives and academic leaders. Strong references from senior academics or quality assurance bodies in Malawi or the region significantly strengthen your candidacy.