Discover senior career Applications open for Department of Higher Education and Training 2025. Apply for roles in communication, ICT systems.
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) continues to play a central role in shaping the future of South Africa’s education and skills landscape. As the country focuses on innovation, quality learning, and youth empowerment, the DHET invites visionary professionals to apply for several key management positions in its Pretoria offices.
These vacancies represent more than just senior government jobs—they are leadership roles that influence policy, strengthen systems, and support the transformation of the education and training sector nationwide. If you’re an experienced leader passionate about making a measurable difference, this could be your next big opportunity.
In the 2025/2026 recruitment cycle, DHET has announced three exciting openings:
- Chief Director: Corporate Communication (Level 14)
- Deputy Director: Systems Administration (Level 12)
- Deputy Director: Strategic Planning (Level 11)
Together, these posts contribute to the Department’s mission of expanding access, improving governance, and driving quality across higher education and training institutions in South Africa.
About the Department of Higher Education and Training
The DHET is responsible for the post-school education and training (PSET) system in South Africa. This includes universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, community education and training centres, and skills development institutions.
Its mandate is to create a responsive, coordinated, and quality-assured education and training system that meets the evolving needs of the economy and society.
Working within DHET means becoming part of a team that champions lifelong learning, innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable development.
1. Chief Director: Corporate Communication (Ref No: DHET 01/10/2025)
Branch: Corporate Services
Chief Directorate: Corporate Communication
Location: Pretoria
Salary: R1 436 022 per annum (Level 14), all-inclusive package
A Leadership Role in Strategic Communication
The Chief Director: Corporate Communication position is a high-impact leadership role designed for a communications professional who can drive national visibility, public engagement, and brand integrity across the higher education sector.
The successful candidate will lead a team responsible for internal and external communications, media relations, digital engagement, and strategic messaging aligned with the Department’s vision.
This position requires someone who not only understands communication strategies but can also lead them with innovation and authority—someone capable of connecting the Department’s goals to the broader public narrative on education reform and youth empowerment.
Key Responsibilities
- Direct and manage the DHET’s corporate communication strategy.
- Oversee media relations, stakeholder engagement, and public information dissemination.
- Manage branding, publications, and digital communications platforms.
- Build positive relationships with the media and education sector stakeholders.
- Advise senior management and the Minister on communication and reputation management.
- Ensure consistency and transparency in all DHET messaging.
Required Qualifications and Experience
- A relevant NQF Level 7 qualification in Communication, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
- Proven senior management experience in strategic communication, preferably within a public sector or large corporate environment.
- Strong understanding of government communication systems, media relations, and stakeholder engagement.
- Excellent leadership, writing, and presentation skills.
Why This Role Matters
Effective communication is the foundation of public trust. As Chief Director, you’ll ensure that the Department’s mission—to build a skilled, capable, and inclusive workforce—is understood and supported by all South Africans. You’ll also be responsible for shaping how DHET’s successes and policies reach millions of citizens and learners across the country.
This is a chance to influence the national dialogue around higher education and training and help bridge the gap between government vision and public participation.
2. Deputy Director: Systems Administration (Ref No: DHET 05/10/2025)
Branch: Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET)
Chief Directorate: National Examination and Assessment
Location: Pretoria
Salary: R1 059 105 per annum (Level 12), all-inclusive package
Strengthening Technology and Data in Education
Technology lies at the heart of modern education systems. As the Deputy Director: Systems Administration, you will play a critical role in ensuring that the Department’s ICT infrastructure supports efficient examinations, assessments, and data management across South Africa’s TVET colleges.
This position requires a highly skilled professional with both technical expertise and managerial experience—someone who understands that information systems are not just tools but key enablers of transparency, efficiency, and quality assurance in education.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the development, maintenance, and optimization of DHET’s ICT systems for examinations and assessments.
- Manage data integrity, system performance, and information security within the TVET environment.
- Coordinate with internal departments and external service providers to ensure smooth ICT operations.
- Support digital transformation initiatives and ICT governance processes.
- Lead a technical team and ensure compliance with departmental and national ICT policies.
Required Qualifications and Experience
- A relevant NQF Level 7 qualification in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
- At least 3 years of experience at junior managerial level in an ICT environment.
- Strong understanding of systems administration, network management, and database operations.
- Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and project management skills.
Why This Role Matters
The reliability of DHET’s national systems directly affects thousands of learners and educators. From examination management to data reporting, your work ensures that operations remain transparent, secure, and effective.
This is a leadership opportunity for an ICT professional who wants to apply their expertise in a purpose-driven environment, supporting the backbone of South Africa’s technical and vocational education infrastructure.
3. Deputy Director: Strategic Planning (Ref No: DHET 06/10/2025)
Branch: Policy, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation
Chief Directorate: Policy, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation
Location: Pretoria
Salary: R896 436 per annum (Level 11), all-inclusive package
Driving Evidence-Based Policy and Performance
If you are passionate about long-term development, policy coherence, and strategic governance, the Deputy Director: Strategic Planning position offers a chance to directly shape how South Africa’s education system evolves.
This role supports the Department in developing strategic plans, performance frameworks, and monitoring systems that align with national goals, such as the National Development Plan (NDP) and Vision 2030.
You’ll help ensure that every programme, budget, and partnership contributes meaningfully to DHET’s mission of inclusive, high-quality education.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, review, and coordinate DHET’s strategic and annual performance plans.
- Lead performance monitoring and evaluation processes across all branches.
- Support management with evidence-based decision-making tools.
- Prepare analytical reports, dashboards, and policy briefs for senior leadership.
- Promote institutional alignment with national and departmental objectives.
- Collaborate with government and higher education partners on research and performance improvement.
Required Qualifications and Experience
- A relevant NQF Level 7 qualification in Public Management, Administration, Business Administration, or Development Studies.
- Minimum 3 years’ experience at junior management level in strategic planning or monitoring and evaluation.
- Strong analytical, research, and coordination skills.
- Ability to interpret policy documents, manage performance data, and communicate effectively.
Why This Role Matters
Strategic planning ensures that public resources are used effectively and that every initiative leads to measurable outcomes. This role empowers you to help guide national education priorities, contributing to social progress and economic inclusion.
How to Apply
All interested applicants must submit their applications online using the new Z83 form by visiting the official DHET portal:
🔗 http://z83.ngnscan.co.za/apply
Follow the prompts to complete your application and upload the following:
- A comprehensive CV (with contact details and references)
- Certified copies of your:
- Qualifications (including matric)
- Identity document
- Valid driver’s licence
- Any other supporting documentation where required
Candidates who previously applied for the Chief Director: Corporate Communication post do not need to reapply, as their applications will still be considered.
For more details on the pre-entry course for senior management service (SMS) positions, visit:
🔗 https://www.thensg.gov.za/training-course/sms-pre-entry-programme/
Note:
Successful candidates will be required to:
- Sign an annual performance agreement
- Disclose financial interests
- Undergo security clearance
Enquiries:
- Ms E. Mangena — (012) 213 5498 (Chief Director post)
- Mr R. Kgare — (012) 312 5442 (Strategic Planning post)
What Makes DHET a Great Place to Work
Working for the Department of Higher Education and Training means joining a community of professionals dedicated to nation-building through education. Beyond the benefits of public sector employment, DHET offers meaningful work, professional development, and opportunities to innovate within a critical sector of South Africa’s growth.
Here’s why these roles stand out:
- Purpose-Driven Work: You’ll contribute to systems that educate and empower millions.
- National Impact: Decisions made here shape education and skills development policies across the country.
- Career Growth: The Department values continuous learning and internal mobility.
- Leadership Exposure: Engage directly with national policy, governance, and transformation initiatives.
- Diversity and Inclusion: DHET is committed to employment equity and encourages applicants from designated groups, including persons with disabilities.
Conclusion: Your Leadership Can Shape South Africa’s Education Future
The Department of Higher Education and Training invites dynamic, ethical, and visionary professionals to be part of South Africa’s journey toward a more educated, skilled, and equitable society.
Whether your expertise lies in communication, ICT systems, or strategic planning, these positions provide an opportunity to apply your leadership in a space where your work truly matters.
This is more than a job—it’s a chance to help build the foundation of South Africa’s future workforce, strengthen institutional integrity, and leave a lasting legacy in education and training.
If you’re ready to lead with purpose and innovation, apply today and take your place in shaping the next chapter of South Africa’s higher education transformation.