UNIVERISTY OF HARGEISA

Administration & HRM Management Directorate

Job Description and Person Specification

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Position title: Principal, College of Medicine and Health Sciences

Contract type : Fixed Term

Reports to: Vice President Academic Affairs 

Division: Medicine and Health Science

Application Deadline: February 12, 2025 (11:59AM)

University of Hargeisa 

Founded in 1998 and officially opened on 23 October 2000, the University of Hargeisa stands as a beacon of academic excellence, research, and community service in Somaliland. As the largest public university in the region, UoH holds a proud tradition of fostering intellectual growth and societal advancement. At UoH, we believe in the transformative power of education to unlock human potential and drive societal progress. Through a rigorous academic curriculum, innovative teaching methodologies, and a supportive learning environment, we empower our students to pursue their passions, expand their horizons, and become lifelong learners and critical thinkers.

Role Purpose

The Principal of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences is responsible for providing academic leadership and ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of the college. The role includes overseeing the academic programs, promoting faculty development, ensuring compliance with academic standards, and fostering a research-driven environment. The Principal plays a critical role in enhancing the reputation of the college and ensuring that it meets the health and medical education needs of the nation.

Duties and responsibilities

▪         Lead the planning, development, and review of academic programs in Medicine and Health Sciences to ensure they meet national and international standards.

▪         Oversee the implementation of the academic curriculum, ensuring its relevance and alignment with the college’s goals and the university’s mission.

▪         Ensure the effective and efficient operation of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, including student admissions, teaching, and learning activities.

▪         Monitor and evaluate academic performance and ensure compliance with the university’s academic policies and Senate regulations.

▪         Provide leadership in the recruitment, retention, and promotion of academic staff within the college.

▪         Develop and implement faculty development programs aimed at enhancing teaching effectiveness, research skills, and professional development.

▪         Manage and develop clinical practice and teaching at the hospital

▪         Enhance and organize college’s community service programs.

▪         Work on the acquisition of research grants and projects into the College of medicine and health sciences and to the University of Hargeisa.  

▪         Foster a culture of academic excellence and continuous improvement among staff and students.

▪         Support faculty in pursuing research and professional development opportunities.

▪         Promote and support research initiatives within the College of Medicine and Health Sciences in collaboration with the Directorate of Research, Publications and Community Services.

▪         Develop strategies for increasing research output and securing external funding.

▪         Guide faculty and students in producing high-quality research aligned with the university’s mission.

▪         Oversee the academic progression and welfare of students in the College of Medicine and Health Sciences.

▪         Ensure that students receive appropriate academic and career guidance.

▪         Address student grievances and promote a conducive learning environment.

▪         Monitor student performance and take corrective actions when necessary.

▪         Ensure that the academic programs in the college meet quality assurance standards.

▪         Prepare and submit accreditation reports for program reviews and accreditation processes.

▪         Liaise with relevant professional bodies, health authorities, and accrediting agencies to maintain and enhance the reputation of the college.

▪         Develop and implement the strategic plan for the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, aligning it with the broader goals of the university.

▪         Provide leadership and represent the college in the university’s Senate and other academic committees.

▪         Ensure the college’s involvement in university-wide initiatives, including curriculum development and resource allocation.

▪         Establish and maintain strong working relationships with national and international universities, research institutions, and health organizations.

▪         Promote the College of Medicine and Health Sciences as a center of excellence in health education and research.

▪         Oversee the college’s budget, ensuring effective resource utilization and financial accountability.

▪         Assist in the preparation of the college’s budget and ensure that it aligns with institutional priorities.

▪         Manage the allocation of resources for teaching, research, and other academic activities within the college.

▪         Do any other task assigned by the Supervisor

PERSONAL SPECIFICATION

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

●       A Doctorate in the field of medicine, health sciences or a related field.

●       At least 8 years of proven experience in academic administration and management.

●       Leadership experience and ability to lead teams in academic & industry settings.

●       Extensive teaching and research experience in higher education with ability to manage a range of educational processes, including planning and continuous improvement of programs and courses.

●       Publications in the Medicine and Health Science field and related literature in areas relevant to the vision, mission and goals of the University of Hargeisa.

●       The candidate should have at least three articles/papers published on reputable journals.

●       Ability and willingness to provide assertive advocacy on behalf of the University.

●       Excellent and effective verbal and written communication skills.

●       Evidence of successful management of staff, partners and stakeholder relationships including health services and clinicians.

●       Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with people in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

●       High integrity/ethics and the ability to meet deadlines.

●       Excellent computer skills.

Interested candidates are invited to submit their application materials via email to [email protected]  with a copy (Cc) to [email protected], indicating “Principal, College of Medicine & Health Sciences” in the email subject.

Required Documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• A one-page statement outlining your suitability for the position
• Three (3) professional letters of recommendation, including one from your current or most recent line manager
• Copies of academic certificates (Bachelor, Master) and transcripts

Application Deadline: February 12, 2025 (11:59 AM)

Selection Process:

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and invited to participate in initial assessments, and an interview.