Officer (Post Level 10/11) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities:

• Administer and manage bursaries and scholarships processes, including the implementation of payment procedures.
• Develop and maintain day-to-day relationships with funding partners to ensure effective collaboration.
• Monitor bursary contract compliance and manage renewal processes in line with funder requirements.
• Oversee bursary allocations to ensure that no student receives more than one full-cost bursary.
• Set up and maintain student cost schedules in alignment with approved bursary amounts.
• Compile detailed biannual reports to funders on student academic performance and financial accounts.
• Prepare and process bursary allocation, disbursement, and withdrawal.
• Facilitate the selection of students in accordance with funder-specific criteria and requirements.
• Provide guidance to students on bursary policies and clearly communicate the implications of non-compliance with contractual terms.
• Coordinate engagements, events, and visits between donors and bursary recipients.
• Assist in the preparation and verification of invoices related to bursary funding.
• Ensure the accurate and timely payment of student allowances in accordance with funder stipulations.
• Review and approve refund requests in line with institutional policies.
• Manage and oversee the credit reversal process to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Manage bursary budgets in collaboration with the Supervisor to ensure effective utilisation of funds.
• Oversee student payments and debtor accounts, ensuring timely collection and resolution of outstanding balances.
• Administer student budgets and perform reconciliations for reimbursements.
• Perform calculations and validations of bursary payouts to ensure accuracy and compliance with funding agreements.
• Liaise with internal departments and external stakeholders to facilitate efficient service delivery.
• Provide comprehensive support and assistance to students regarding bursary matters.
• Train, mentor, and supervise interns and temporary staff members.
• Deliver presentations and provide information sessions on bursaries and related funding opportunities when required. 

Inherent requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or an advanced diploma/B tech degree/postgraduate certificate on NQF Level 7 with Accounting as a major.
• Minimum of two (2) years relevant working experience in bursary, student funding, or finance/accounting administration.

Recommendations:

• Knowledge and understanding of computer programs (PeopleSoft, Word, Excel and Internet).
• Work experience in the Higher Education context, especially bursaries, dealing with staff, students and parents.
• Knowledge of bursary requirements and rules.

Competencies

Required competencies: 

Results Orientated:

• The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.
• The ability to deal calmly and effectively with high stress situations.

Strategic Thinking:

• The ability to plan work and to follow plans.
• The ability to be creative and open-minded when addressing work issues.

Business Acumen:

• The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
• Proficient in using MS Office.

Leading:

• The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
• The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.

Building Coalitions:

• The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.
• The ability to be sensitive and understanding to the needs and feelings of others.

Closing date:
12 August 2026