The Catholic University of Malawi invites applications from suitably qualified persons for the following positions tenable at Montfort campus, Nguludi, Chiradzulu.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Lilongwe
- Category: Information Technology
- Closing Date: 2026-08-21
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborating with departments and customers to identify end-user requirements and specifications
- Designing algorithms and flowcharts to create new software programs and systems
- Producing efficient and elegant code-based requirements
- Troubleshooting, debugging, maintaining and improving existing software.
- Compiling and assessing user feedback to improve software performance
- Observing user feedback to recommend improvements to existing software products.
- Developing technical documentation to guide future software developments projects.
Requirements
- Bachelors degree in either Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or relevant fields; with three (3) years relevant work experience.
How to Apply
Applications from interested candidates together with detailed Curriculum Vitae and copies of certificates which include names and contact details of three (3) traceable referees, plus academic and professional documents should be sent by 21st August, 2026 to:
The Registrar
Catholic University of Malawi
P.O. Box 5452
LIMBE
Email: vacancies@cunima.ac.mw copy information@cunima.ac.mw
About the Company
The Catholic University of Malawi is a fast-growing institution of higher learning accredited by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) to offer Degrees, Diplomas, and Certificates. It was established by the Episcopal Conference of Malawi on October 16, 2004, and officially opened its doors in 2006. The university has seven faculties, namely Education, Law, Theology, Social Sciences, Science, Commerce and, Nursing and Midwifery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Senior ICT Officer (Systems Programmer) role in Malawi?
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a closely related field is usually mandatory, often supplemented by postgraduate qualifications preferred by institutions like Catholic University of Malawi. Relevant professional certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate, Cisco CCNA/CCNP, or Oracle Certified Professional are valued, especially if aligned with the university’s infrastructure. Local employers also recognise diplomas from reputable Malawian institutions (e.g., Polytechnic, LUANAR) when combined with substantial hands-on experience.
What does a typical day look like for a Senior ICT Officer (Systems Programmer) at a Malawian university?
Daily tasks include maintaining, debugging, and enhancing core university systems (e.g., student information systems, ERP modules), writing and optimising scripts or applications in languages like Python, Java, or SQL, and collaborating with academic and administrative staff to translate functional needs into technical solutions. You’ll also respond to system outages, conduct routine backups, and support end-users across campus—often requiring flexibility due to limited ICT staffing and intermittent power/internet reliability common in Malawi.
How does workplace culture and expectations differ for ICT professionals in Malawian universities compared to private-sector IT roles?
University ICT roles in Malawi emphasise service orientation, patience, and adaptability—staff often support non-technical users with limited digital literacy and must navigate hierarchical decision-making involving academic leadership. Informal mentorship, teamwork over individual recognition, and responsiveness during academic cycles (e.g., registration, exam periods) are expected, alongside adherence to public-sector-aligned protocols on procurement, data handling, and reporting—even in semi-autonomous institutions like Catholic University of Malawi.
What realistic career progression paths exist for a Senior ICT Officer in Malawian higher education institutions?
Internal progression may lead to roles such as ICT Manager, Head of ICT Services, or Digital Transformation Coordinator—especially with demonstrated project leadership and stakeholder engagement. External options include moving into ICT policy advisory roles with government bodies (e.g., MICTSETA, NICTA), regional universities, or development partner-funded digital initiatives. Continued professional development (e.g., postgraduate studies, cloud certifications) and active participation in local ICT associations (like MALNET) strengthen advancement prospects.
What benefits—such as leave, medical aid, and pension—are commonly offered to ICT officers in Malawian universities?
Staff typically receive statutory benefits including 21–30 days annual leave, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave per the Employment Act. Medical aid is often provided through university-affiliated schemes (e.g., NASFUND-linked plans) or partnerships with local insurers, while pension contributions follow the National Pension Scheme (NAPSA) framework. Some universities supplement these with housing allowances or study leave support, though specifics depend on institutional policy and funding availability.