October 21, 2025

Lecturer – (2145)

Website University of the Western Cape (UWC)

A vibrant university with a commitment to social justice.

Lecturer – (2145)

The University of the Western Cape (UWC), a dynamic and diverse university rooted in Africa with a growing global presence, is looking for a dedicated Lecturer. UWC is committed to responding critically and creatively to South Africa’s development needs within an ever-changing global context.

The Faculty of Arts and Humanities is a leading faculty in South Africa, known for its national and international recognition. It produces world-class research, hosts four Research Chairs, and has strong global university networks. The faculty offers innovative learning, teaching, and research, and is deeply committed to community engagement that promotes social justice.

The Department of Foreign Languages offers a range of foreign languages, including French, German, and Classical Culture, from first year to postgraduate levels. Beyond language acquisition, the department also teaches literatures, cultures, films, and Translation Studies related to these languages.

About the Role

As a Lecturer in the Department of Foreign Languages, you will bring your expertise to teach and supervise students in areas such as Cultural Studies, Classical Cultures, Comparative Literature, and Language Acquisition (specifically in French or German). You are also expected to actively contribute to the department’s research and academic life.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Teach undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Literary Studies, Cultural Studies, Comparative Literature, Critical Media, Film Studies, Humanities, and Language Acquisition (French or German section).
  • Design and/or update modules in Language Acquisition, Cultural Studies, Comparative Literature, or Classical Cultures, ensuring they align with departmental and faculty goals.
  • Supervise Honours and Master’s level postgraduate students.
  • Conduct research and publish scholarly work in relevant established and emerging fields.
  • Serve on departmental committees and assist with administrative duties, such as module coordination and faculty committee representation.
  • Actively participate in community outreach and engagement activities in line with the university’s goals.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications and Experience:

  • A Master’s degree in Foreign Languages, Comparative Literature, Cultural Studies, or a closely related field relevant to the department’s teaching and research.
  • Proven experience in successful teaching, both face-to-face and online, with the ability to create and adapt teaching materials for both modes.
  • At least one publication in an accredited journal or an equivalent recognized scholarly output, suitable for a Lecturer position at a research-led institution.

Recommendations / Added Advantages:

  • A PhD (or proof of registration/near completion) in Foreign Languages, Comparative Literature, Cultural Studies, or a related field that enhances the department’s academic and research strengths.
  • Experience supervising Honours and/or Master’s students.
  • Evidence of ongoing research activity and the potential to contribute significantly to the department’s research profile.
  • Proficiency (speaking and knowledge) in at least one official South African language other than English. This helps in meaningful engagement with Comparative Literatures and Cultures between the department’s language offerings (Arabic, French, German, Classical/Indo-European Languages) and South African contexts.

Key Competencies:

  • Excellent presentation and facilitation skills.
  • Adaptability and ability to thrive in a diverse environment.
  • Strong student-focused approach.
  • Effective coaching and mentoring skills.
  • Good planning and organizing abilities.
  • Proficiency in computer literacy and e-learning tools.
  • Knowledge and skills in core strategic areas: learning and teaching, research and scholarship, community engagement, and professional leadership.

How to Apply

To be considered for this exciting opportunity, please apply online via the UWC Careers portal. In your application, highlight your strengths and include anything exceptional you believe should be considered by the selection panel.

Please attach the following documents to your online profile:

  • A detailed Cover Letter explaining your suitability for the role.
  • A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) including contact details for three referees.
  • Copies of your highest qualification(s).

For any recruitment-related queries, you can contact the Human Resources Department at +27 21 959 4063/9763/9708/3551/3756 or email [email protected].

Important Information

By applying, you consent to UWC sharing your application, including your CV, with relevant University stakeholders for processing. In line with its commitment to diversifying its workforce, UWC will give preference to suitably qualified applicants in line with its Employment Equity Targets. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment, to appoint at a different level, or to seek additional candidates. Competency assessments may be conducted.

To apply for this job please visit uwc.hua.hrsmart.com.