The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) , in partnership with the Research Council of Zimbabwe (RCZ) and the Scientific and Industrial Research and Development Centre (SIRDC), invites submissions of Policy Research Proposals under the National Digital Technologies Policy Research Programme (DTPRP) . The programme seeks to strengthen Zimbabwe’s national capacity to develop evidence-based policies, regulatory frameworks, and governance of emerging technologies through policy research, capacity development, and collaboration between researchers, regulators and policymakers.
Job Summary
- Employer: Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ)
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Research
- Closing Date: 2026-10-03
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute to the development of: Policy briefs
- Contribute to the development of: Draft policy frameworks
- Contribute to the development of: Stakeholder consultation reports
- Contribute to the development of: National policy recommendation documents
- Participate in a phased national programme covering onboarding and problem framing, policy training, policy research laboratories, policy design and prototyping, policy paper development and validation, and policy uptake, dialogue and dissemination.
Requirements
- Policy analysts
- Researchers in social sciences and ICT
- Academia
- Regulatory experts
- Legal experts
- Economists
- Technical experts
- Maximum length: 3.5 pages, excluding cover page
- Font: Times New Roman, Size 12
- Spacing: 1.5
- Format: PDF
- Language: English
- AI-generated text: Below 10%
How to Apply
Apply by email: research.development@potraz.zw
About the Company
The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) is the statutory body mandated to regulate the postal, telecommunications, and broadcasting sectors in Zimbabwe. Headquartered in Harare, POTRAZ oversees licensing, spectrum management, consumer protection, and market competition across the country’s digital infrastructure. It operates under the Postal and Telecommunications Act [Chapter 12:05] and reports to the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services. POTRAZ plays a central role in advancing Zimbabwe’s national ICT policy, including broadband rollout and universal service obligations in both urban and rural areas.
Regulating Zimbabwe's postal and telecommunications sector
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for this research role?
Candidates usually need a degree or postgraduate qualification in Public Policy, Economics, Information Technology, or a related field. Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies is essential for developing policy proposals. Professional certifications in data analysis or project management are often highly regarded.
What are the day-to-day responsibilities for a researcher in the DTPRP?
Daily tasks involve analyzing digital technology trends and drafting comprehensive policy research proposals. You will likely engage with stakeholders to gather data and ensure proposals align with national regulatory frameworks. Regular reporting and presenting findings to senior management are also key components of the role.
What is the work culture and expectation for professional roles in Zimbabwe?
The culture typically emphasizes formal communication, respect for hierarchy, and a strong commitment to deadlines. Professionals are expected to be adaptable and proactive in navigating the local regulatory environment. Punctuality and a high level of professionalism in official correspondence are standard requirements.
What are the typical benefits and growth paths for this position?
Standard benefits in Zimbabwe often include medical aid, a pension scheme, and annual leave. Career progression typically leads toward senior policy advisory roles or specialized consultancy positions within the ICT sector. Growth depends on the quality of research output and the ability to influence national policy.
How should I apply and what do Zimbabwean employers look for in a research application?
Applications should be submitted via the official channels specified in the job advert, including a tailored CV and cover letter. Employers look for evidence of previous research success and a deep understanding of the Zimbabwean digital landscape. A strong academic record combined with practical experience in policy drafting is highly valued.
