AsanSka University College of Design and Technology (AUCDT) is a private University College located at Oyibi, Accra, accredited by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission and affiliated with the University of Education, Winneba. AUCDT is a practice-based institution offering programs in Jewellery Design Technology, Digital Media and Communication Design, Fashion Design, and Product Design and Entrepreneurship at the Degree, Diploma, and Certificate levels. The institution seeks a passionate, experienced, and knowledgeable individual to take the role of Dean of Academic Affairs.
The Dean of Academic Affairs is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing all academic programs, policies, and the overall educational quality of the institution. The Dean ensures that AUCDT’s academic standards meet the highest levels of excellence and that programs align with the mission and vision of the university college, while also fostering a collaborative and innovative academic environment. This role involves working closely with faculty, department heads, and the university’s leadership team to support student success, faculty development, and research initiatives.
Responsibilities
Academic Leadership:
Provide strategic leadership and oversight of all academic programs, ensuring they meet the educational and accreditation standards of the institution. Craft and execute a comprehensive academic strategy that positions AUCDT as a premier institution in design and technology education. Champion a culture of continuous innovation, intellectual curiosity, and academic excellence. Drive interdisciplinary collaboration across academic departments.
Curriculum Development:
Oversee the design, review, and continuous improvement of the academic curriculum in alignment with industry standards and the needs of students. Design forward-thinking, industry-aligned curricula that anticipate and respond to emerging technological and design trends. Ensure academic programs meet and exceed national and international accreditation standards. Integrate emerging technologies and pedagogical approaches to enhance learning outcomes.
Faculty Management:
Support the recruitment, retention, and development of highly qualified faculty members, ensuring faculty excellence in teaching, research, and service. Build and nurture a high performance academic team through strategic recruitment, professional development, and performance management. Foster a supportive environment that attracts and retains top academic talent. Implement innovative faculty development programs that promote research, teaching excellence, and professional growth.
Policy and Governance:
Develop and implement academic policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with institutional regulations and requirements of accreditation bodies. Ensure strict compliance with institutional policies and regulatory frameworks.
Student Success:
Foster a student-centered academic environment, focusing on student retention, academic advising, learning outcomes, and career readiness. Develop comprehensive strategies to enhance student learning experiences, retention, and career readiness. Create inclusive academic environments that celebrate diversity, promote equity, and support holistic student development. Establish robust mechanisms for student support, mentorship, and career progression.
Accreditation and Quality Assurance:
Lead efforts to maintain and improve accreditation status with relevant accreditation bodies.
Research and Innovation:
Promote a culture of research and academic innovation, providing support for faculty and students to engage in scholarly and creative activities. Develop collaborative research and innovation initiatives that create tangible societal impact.
Collaboration:
Work closely with other deans, department heads, and administrative leaders to achieve institutional goals and improve academic services.
Budget Management:
Oversee the budget for academic programs and ensure the effective allocation of resources to meet academic goals. Manage academic budgets and resources with financial prudence and strategic foresight.
Community Engagement:
Build partnerships with industry, government, and other educational institutions to enhance the university college’s reputation and opportunities for students and faculty. Build strategic partnerships with industry leaders, government agencies, and international academic institutions. Represent AUCDT as a thought leader in design and technology education.
Operational Excellence:
Leverage data-driven insights for continuous improvement and strategic decision-making.
Requirement
Educational Requirements:
- A PhD in a relevant academic discipline from an accredited institution. A doctoral degree in Design, Technology, Education, or a related field is required.
- Proven record of scholarly achievement and research.
Experience:
- Minimum of 8-10 years of academic experience, including teaching, research, and administration. A minimum of 10 years of higher education experience, including 5 years in senior leadership is required.
- At least 5 years in a leadership role, such as department head, associate dean, or dean, preferably in a higher education setting. Proven track record in curriculum development and academic administration is necessary.
- Familiarity with Ghana’s tertiary education system and accreditation standards is
highly desirable.
Skills and Competencies:
- Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills are required.
- Ability to foster collaboration among faculty and staff. A collaborative leadership style is essential.
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Visionary strategic thinking is essential.
- Proven experience in curriculum development and program assessment. Demonstrable expertise in technological integration and educational innovation is needed.
- Commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion, and academic integrity. A deep commitment to student centered education is required.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
- Knowledge of educational technologies and innovative teaching methods. Ability to inspire innovation and creativity is essential.
- Adaptability and resilience in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
- Reputation management skills.
Desired Attributes:
- Strong industry network in design, technology, and related sectors.
- Experience in multicultural, dynamic educational environments.
- Proven thought leadership through publications or significant professional contributions.
Compensation:
- Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
- Opportunities for professional development and advancement within the university community.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
- Research and conference attendance support.
- Performance-based incentives.
- Vibrant and inclusive campus environment with access to cultural and recreational amenities.
Mode of Application
Interested and qualified applicants should submit the following:
- A cover letter addressing qualifications and experience. A visionary cover letter outlining the academic leadership approach is required.
- A detailed CV highlighting relevant achievements.
- Contact information for three professional references.
by email to: hr@aucdt.edu.gh
The Registrar
AsanSka University College of Design and Technology
P. O. Box VV 179
Accra
Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
