Lecturer, Writing and Communication

University of Global Health Equity (UGHE)  Butaro, Rwanda

The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) is on a mission to radically change the way health care is delivered around the world. UGHE is a new university based in Rwanda that is building the next generation of global health professionals—doctors, nurses, researchers, and public health and policy experts—into leaders and change makers who strive to deliver more equitable, quality health services for all.

ROLE PROFILE:

Title: Lecturer, Writing and Communication

Department: Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Medicine

Reports to: Head, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences

Location: Butaro, Burera District, and Kigali, Rwanda

 ROLE PURPOSE:

The main responsibilities of the Lecturer in Writing and Communication will be:

1. to develop and teach English writing and communication courses for the MBBS/MGHD (medical degree) program,
2. to develop and teach English courses for the MGHD and Nursing programs and any future programs at UGHE,
3. to support the academic writing of students, faculty and staff through the UGHE Writing Center, and
4. to serve as a mentor for students across all academic programs while working at the UGHE campus in Butaro.

DETAILED RESPONSIBILITIES

 Teaching and Curriculum Development

• Work in collaboration with the Head of Humanities and Social Sciences, Library, and the Educational Development and Quality Center to determine content, lesson plans, and teaching responsibilities
• Write and develop online or in-person course materials inclusive of assessments, syllabi, lesson plans, readings and teaching videos
• Create a wide range of activities to improve students’ written and verbal skills in the English language outside the classroom and across the Butaro campus
• Conduct various administrative responsibilities such as assessment of student progress, monitoring student attendance, validating candidature of students before exams, and evaluating the student experience at UGHE
• Supervise, examine and grade students, and enter their grades into the UGHE Learning Management System (Canvas)
• Ensure alignment of content and curriculum with UGHE’s plans and international standards
• Where appropriate, carry out revisions to existing courses and curriculum

 Development of UGHE’s Writing Center

• Organize regular workshops and short courses to help faculty members improve their writing and presentation skills in academic English
• Develop and lead the Writing Center in collaboration with the UGHE Librarian and contribute to the center’s activities
• Hold regular office hours for students, faculty and staff on campus seeking to improve their writing skills

Research

• Participate in research at UGHE
• Carry out research activities and disseminate research findings through publications and presentations in conferences and seminars
• Advise students on their research projects to ensure their writings are up to the University’s standards
• Perform additional tasks as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Excellent written and verbal English communication skills (native level);
• Minimum of a Master of Arts in English, Literature, Linguistics, Communication, or related field;
• Experience in teaching English as a Foreign Language to adults or in higher education settings is required;
• Experience in teaching English for Academic Purposes (EAP) and familiarity with the Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) movement would be assets;
• Familiarity with conventions of academic English and referencing styles;
• Interest in both academic and creative writing;
• Computer literacy, with proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite and Google suite, and familiarity with a Learning Management System such as Canvas;
• Ability to multitask, work well as a member of a team, and demonstrate flexibility in a fast-paced work environment;
• Ability to pay attention to detail and quality;
• Results-oriented with adherence to deliverables and deadlines;
• Experience in multicultural working environment required; experience living and working in Sub Saharan Africa preferred;
• Commitment to social justice strongly preferred, and
• Demonstrated commitment to the pursuit of a career in academia.