Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Bindura
- Category: Communications
- Closing Date: 2026-09-17
Key Responsibilities
- Enhance and protect the University’s reputation through clear, consistent, and timely communication across media, digital, and stakeholder channels
- Plan and deliver the annual communications calendar aligned to the University’s priorities
- Manage media relations: press releases, interviews, coverage tracking
- Create and coordinate multimedia content for social media and website
- Support internal communications to staff and students (notices, newsletters, events)
- Coordinate protocol and publicity for key University events
- Monitor and respond to issues and support crisis communication when needed
- Maintain brand standards and templates across faculties and units
- Track basic KPIs and produce short monthly/quarterly reports
- Strong writing, editing, and stakeholder engagement
- Social media management and basic analytics; CMS/SEO familiarity; competent use of AI for brand management, videography and photography
Requirements
- Five (5) Ordinary Level passes including English Language
- Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations/Communications/Journalism/Media
- A Masters Degree in Public Relations/Communications/Journalism/Media is a must
- Professional qualifications in AI and/or Digital marketing tools will be an added advantage
- 4 years’ experience in Public Relations/communications; higher education/public sector exposure preferred
- Clean Class 4 Drivers Licence is a must
How to Apply
About the Company
In 1995, the Government made a decision to address the problem of the shortage of science teachers locally by setting up a University of Science Education. The Bindura University College of Science Education was established under the University of Zimbabwe. Arrangements were made for it to be housed at the Provincial Public Service Training Centre in Bindura.The College finally opened on 26 March 1996 with an intake of 125 students. Among the lecturing staff, were five lecturers from Cuba. This development coincided with and was partly, a consequence of the termination of the Zimbabwe-Cuba Science Teacher Training programme which had begun operating in the mid-1980s. The University Council then set up a Planning Committee, which was charged with the responsibility of transforming the College into a University within a period of less than five yearsGovernment gazetted the Bindura University of Science Education Act in February 2000, conferring University status to the College. A University Council with Professor C J Chetsanga as its Chairman was appointed. Professor C E M Chikombah, who had been the College's substantive Pro-Vice Chancellor since 1997 became the Acting Vice Chancellor.Since its inception, the University is operating from the Public Service Training Centre, on a temporary basis, pending the construction of the Main Campus. This is being built on a 159 hectare plot about two kilometres from the town centre along the Bindura - Mount Darwin Road
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications are typically required for an Information and Public Relations Officer role at a Zimbabwean university?
A degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field is usually required, often with at least two years of relevant experience. Professional membership with bodies like the Zimbabwe Institute of Public Relations (ZIPR) or a postgraduate qualification can strengthen your application.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for this role?
You would typically draft press releases, manage the university's social media and website content, coordinate media coverage of events, and prepare internal newsletters or reports. The role also involves handling public inquiries and maintaining a positive institutional image.
What does the local work culture expect from a communications professional in Zimbabwe?
Employers expect strong written English, respect for protocol and hierarchy, and the ability to work under pressure during events like graduation ceremonies or public announcements. You should also be comfortable engaging with both traditional media (newspapers, radio) and digital platforms.
What career progression can a Public Relations Officer realistically expect in Zimbabwe?
You can progress to Senior Public Relations Officer, Communications Manager, or Director of Information and Public Relations within a university or other large organisation. Gaining experience in crisis communication and stakeholder management often accelerates this growth.
What typical benefits are offered for this role in Zimbabwean public institutions?
Benefits usually include annual leave, contributory medical aid, a pension scheme (such as NSSA plus an occupational pension), and sometimes housing or transport allowances. The exact package varies by employer and your level of experience.
How should I apply and what do Zimbabwean employers look for in an application?
Submit a tailored CV and application letter, often with certified copies of certificates, and follow the specific instructions in the job advert. Employers look for evidence of strong writing samples, media contacts, and a clear understanding of the institution's public image needs.