Call for Applications – The Principal
Swedish Open University Africa (SOUAF) invites visionary academic leaders to apply for the position of Principal, the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Academic and Administrative Officer of the institution.
About Swedish Open University Africa
Swedish Open University Africa (SOUAF) is a newly established University College in the Republic of Zambia, under the organization number 120261045189. SOUAF will deliver high-quality online education across Africa and internationally, offering programs in Business, Innovation & Technology Management, Education & Global Studies, and related disciplines.
SOUAF combines Scandinavian academic rigor with African contextual relevance. The institution is expanding across Africa and internationally, positioning itself as a leading provider of globally benchmarked, digitally delivered higher education.
Position Overview
The Principal
The Principal is the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Academic and Administrative Officer of the institution and reports directly to the Board of Governance. The appointment will be full-time.
The Principal provides visionary leadership, strategic direction, and executive management of the institution. The role ensures that SOUAF achieves its academic mission, maintains regulatory compliance, strengthens institutional sustainability, and upholds international standards of quality assurance.
The successful candidate can work in hybrid mode, online, or from the Head Office in Lusaka, Zambia, and will report to the Board of Governance of SOUAF.
Key Responsibilities
Minimum Qualification and Experience Requirements
Academic Qualifications
- A Doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) from a recognized institution.
Academic and Professional Experience
- Minimum of six (6) years teaching experience in higher education.
- At least three (3) years of experience in senior academic administration or executive leadership within a recognized higher education institution.
- Demonstrated experience in institutional governance, quality assurance, and accreditation processes.
- Extensive experience in online education leadership, international academic partnerships, and institutional transformation will be an added advantage.
Required Skills and Competencies
Work Arrangement and Reporting Structure
The Principal will coordinate institutional operations through the Regional Office in Lusaka, Zambia and report directly to the Board of Governance.
This appointment will be full-time. The role requires the ability to coordinate digital workflows, manage documentation electronically, and interact professionally with staff across multiple countries. Availability for virtual coordination meetings and academic forums is required.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates must submit:
- A formal Cover Letter outlining suitability for the position.
- A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A certified copy of their highest academic qualification (PhD).
- Any supporting evidence of experience, skills, and competencies. This is optional but encouraged.
- Contact details of three referees.
Deadline for Submission
June 23, 2026
Applications must be sent to staff@swedishopenuniversity.se. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
SOUAF invites visionary academic leaders who are ready to shape the future of digitally enabled higher education in Africa. If no qualified applicants are identified, the post will remain reopened until the position is filled.
Apply by EmailWorking Conditions and Institutional Values
The Principal will be appointed on a renewable contract basis, with competitive executive remuneration aligned to qualifications and experience. The role includes pension provisions, leave entitlements, and performance-based evaluation as defined in the Staff Conditions.
SOUAF operates on values of academic excellence, innovation, inclusiveness, accountability, digital transformation, and commitment to African development through globally benchmarked education.
Leadership at SOUAF requires integrity, professionalism, transparency, and dedication to empowering learners across the continent.
Swedish Open University Africa (SOUAF) is an equal opportunity institution committed to academic excellence and inclusive education.
For inquiries, please contact contact@swedishopenuniversity.se or visit www.swedishopenuniversity.net.