Program Officer - Scholar Support at United States International University - USIU Africa

Department: Scholars Program

Division: Academic and Student Affairs

Job Purpose

Reporting to Director, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at USIU-Africa, the office holder will support the Program Director in all matters related to Scholar support and welfare.

Key Responsibilities

• Organize the Scholars’ pre-orientation workshop;
• Develop an all rounded follow up program for the Scholars with existing student support services, entrepreneurship training and other opportunities such as Transformative Leadership Training;
• Work with other Program staff to ensure overall success of the Scholars;
• Building strong relationships with the Scholars to support their academic, psychosocial and professional development;
• Assist the Program Director with program data collection for monitoring, evaluation and learning;
• Update Scholar data and information in the Management Information System;
• Contribute to a range of administrative and programmatic activities as needed;
• Performance of any other duties as may be assigned.

Key Personal Attributes and Competencies

• A service orientation with an eye to use experience.
• Team player with excellent interpersonal and communication skills;
• Ability to make quick and smart judgments in recommending alternative solutions for various scenarios as they occur;
• Strong adherence to ethical practice and data privacy;
• Strong intercultural and interpersonal skills;
• Good understanding of needs of the Scholars from marginalized communities/backgrounds;
• Goal oriented, with ability to work under pressure, independently and with limited supervision.

Minimum Educational Qualifications

• Undergraduate Degree in communications, business, social sciences or other related fields from an accredited university.
• At least 3 years working with young people in various support/development areas.

Skills and Competencies

• Professional experience (or relevant experience gained during undergraduate studies) working with people from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds;
• Passion for creating opportunities and supporting development of high-potential African youth;
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills;
• Experience in database management/CRM platforms.