Job Summary
- Employer: Unicaf
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Education
- Salary: Attractive salary plus commission
- Closing Date: 2026-10-13
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct thorough needs assessments with each prospective student to understand their educational goals and unique circumstances
- Provide comprehensive guidance on the application process, assisting with form completion, document gathering, and submission
- Collaborate with the admissions team to track application status and ensure a smooth and timely decision
- Maintain detailed records of all interactions with prospective students in our customer relationship management (CRM) system
- Identify and address any barriers or concerns that may prevent a student from enrolling, offering creative solutions to overcome obstacles
- Develop and implement strategies to convert prospective students into registered students
- Stay up-to-date on academic programs, admission policies, and financial aid opportunities to provide accurate and timely information
- Make daily outbound calls to applicants to guide and support them throughout the online application and enrolment process
Requirements
- Experience in student recruitment, advising, or enrollment management will be considered an advantage.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and empathize with prospective students
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills to address barriers to student enrollment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
Salary
Attractive salary plus commission
How to Apply
About the Company
UNICAF is a Cypriot for-profit online and blended learning institution operating in Africa, founded by Nicos Nicolaou in 2012. It partners with other universities to provide university education.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a Student Advisor at Unicaf in Malawi?
Most employers require a bachelor's degree in education, counseling, social sciences, or a related field. Experience in customer service, academic administration, or student support is highly valued. Some positions may accept diploma holders with substantial relevant experience.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Student Advisor?
You will guide prospective and enrolled students through program selection, registration, and academic planning. Daily tasks include responding to inquiries via phone, email, or in-person meetings, tracking student progress, and escalating complex issues to senior staff. You may also assist with orientation sessions and retention initiatives.
How does the work culture for Student Advisors differ in Malawian educational institutions?
Malawian workplaces typically emphasize respect for hierarchy and formal communication with supervisors. Punctuality is important, though flexibility may be expected during peak enrollment periods. Building personal rapport with students is culturally significant and often valued alongside professional efficiency.
What career progression opportunities exist for Student Advisors in Malawi's education sector?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Advisor, Student Services Manager, or Academic Coordinator roles. Some professionals transition into admissions management, quality assurance, or institutional research positions. Further qualifications such as a master's degree or specialized certifications in higher education administration can accelerate promotion.
What benefits are typically offered to Student Advisors in Malawi?
Benefits vary by employer but commonly include annual leave entitlements per Malawi labour law, which mandates at least 18 days of paid leave. Larger institutions may offer medical aid schemes, pension contributions, and professional development allowances. Always confirm specific benefits during the interview process as packages differ significantly between organizations.
How should I apply for a Student Advisor position, and what do Malawian employers prioritize in candidates?
Apply through official company websites, job portals like MyJobo or LinkedIn, or by submitting applications directly to HR departments. Employers prioritize strong communication skills in English and Chichewa, computer proficiency, and demonstrated empathy for student challenges. Highlight any experience with distance learning, CRM systems, or multicultural student populations.