The Mandela Institute for Development Studies is inviting applications for a Programs Officer position based in Johannesburg. This full-time role offers an opportunity to contribute to pan-African development initiatives through programme coordination, stakeholder engagement, and leadership development support. The application deadline for this position is April 24, 2026.
MINDS is a continental think tank that provides a platform for dialogue, research, and knowledge exchange focused on African governance, economic development, and institutional transformation. Its work is grounded in rigorous research and aims to address short, medium, and long-term development challenges across Africa.
Organizational Overview
The Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS) operates as a Pan-African policy and research institution. It focuses on strengthening leadership capacity and promoting collaboration across African countries. The organization’s core mission is to shape policy and practice through evidence-based research and dialogue.
Key areas of focus include:
- Governance and democratic development
- Economic integration across African states
- African heritage and identity studies
- Leadership development through scholarship programmes
Through these initiatives, MINDS works with governments, academia, civil society, and international partners to support sustainable development across the continent.
Role Summary
The Programs Officer plays a central role in supporting the implementation and coordination of MINDS programmes. A major focus of the position is the Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development, alongside contributions to governance, economic integration, and African heritage initiatives.
The role requires strong organizational ability, attention to detail, and the capacity to manage multiple programme components simultaneously. The Programs Officer ensures that activities are delivered efficiently, stakeholders are engaged effectively, and programme objectives are achieved.
Key Responsibilities
The position covers a broad range of programme management and coordination duties. These responsibilities are structured across several functional areas.
Programme Coordination and Implementation
- Support execution of programme activities and action plans
- Assist in developing annual work plans and budgets
- Coordinate timelines, deliverables, and operational processes
- Monitor programme progress and ensure alignment with objectives
Scholarship Programme Management
- Manage the full scholarship lifecycle, including application and selection
- Oversee scholar onboarding and induction processes
- Maintain and update scholar databases
- Coordinate communication and engagement among scholars
- Support leadership development activities and programme participation
- Manage logistics such as travel and programme arrangements
Events and Logistics
- Plan and coordinate workshops, events, and leadership activities
- Manage logistical arrangements for programme implementation
- Ensure smooth execution of all scheduled activities
Cross-Programme Support
- Assist in governance, economic integration, and heritage programmes
- Support stakeholder engagement across multiple sectors
- Facilitate collaboration with governments, NGOs, academia, and multilateral organizations
- Contribute to research, dialogue, and partnership activities
Monitoring, Reporting, and Communication
- Track programme performance and budget utilization
- Prepare donor reports and internal documentation
- Draft communication materials and programme briefs
- Support visibility and outreach initiatives
Administrative Support
- Assist with procurement and financial processes
- Ensure proper documentation and compliance standards
- Support general administrative operations as required
Required Qualifications and Experience
Candidates are expected to demonstrate both academic preparation and practical experience in programme coordination or development work.
Minimum requirements include:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field
- 3–5 years of relevant experience in programme support or coordination
- Experience in NGO, development, or policy environments (preferred)
- Exposure to scholarship or education programme management (advantageous)
Skills and Competencies
The role requires a strong combination of technical, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
Key competencies include:
- Strong coordination and project management abilities
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
- Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills
- Attention to detail and problem-solving capability
- Proficiency in MS Office tools
- Ability to work effectively in multicultural and pan-African environments
These skills ensure effective delivery of complex, multi-stakeholder programmes across diverse regions.
Personal Attributes
MINDS seeks candidates who demonstrate professionalism and a strong commitment to development work. Ideal attributes include:
- Proactive and adaptable working style
- High levels of integrity and accountability
- Strong commitment to Pan-African development values
- Ability to work independently and within teams
- Passion for leadership development and social impact
Role Impact and Value
The Programs Officer role contributes directly to shaping leadership capacity across Africa. By managing scholarship programmes and supporting regional initiatives, the position helps develop future leaders and strengthen institutional networks.
Key outcomes of the role include:
- Efficient delivery of leadership development programmes
- Effective scholar engagement and support systems
- Improved stakeholder collaboration across Africa
- Accurate reporting and donor compliance
- Strengthened programme visibility and impact
This position offers meaningful exposure to continental policy processes and leadership development initiatives.
Application Process
Interested candidates must apply through the official MINDS application platform. Applications should include relevant qualifications and experience aligned with the role requirements.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. MINDS also reserves the right not to fill the position.
Conclusion
The Programs Officer position at the Mandela Institute for Development Studies represents a significant opportunity for professionals passionate about African development and leadership transformation.
Through its scholarship and policy programmes, MINDS plays a critical role in shaping future leaders across the continent. This role offers the chance to contribute directly to that mission by supporting programme delivery, strengthening partnerships, and enhancing leadership development initiatives.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
