About Company
The Open University of Mauritius (OUM) is a beacon of accessible higher education, dedicated to empowering individuals across the nation and beyond through flexible and innovative learning opportunities. As a leading public university, OUM is committed to fostering academic excellence, lifelong learning, and personal growth. Our unique open and distance learning model caters to a diverse student body, from recent school leavers to seasoned professionals seeking to upskill or reskill. At OUM, we believe in nurturing not just intellectual capacity, but also the holistic well-being of our students, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to thrive in their academic journey and personal lives. We are more than an educational institution; we are a community focused on making a profound impact on the future of Mauritius by developing highly skilled and well-rounded graduates. Join us in our mission to shape futures and build a stronger, more knowledgeable society.
Job Description
The Open University of Mauritius is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Guidance Counselor to join our Student Welfare team. This vital role involves providing comprehensive guidance and support to our diverse student population, addressing their academic, personal, social, and career development needs. As a Guidance Counselor, you will be instrumental in fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, ensuring our students feel valued, understood, and equipped to overcome challenges. You will work closely with students from various backgrounds and age groups, helping them navigate the unique aspects of open and distance learning, manage stress, develop effective study habits, and plan their future careers. Your expertise will contribute significantly to student retention, success, and overall well-being. This is an exciting opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of aspiring learners, contributing to their academic achievements and personal resilience within the dynamic setting of Mauritius’ leading open university. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping a positive and enriching university experience for our students, aligning with OUM’s commitment to holistic student development.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide individual and group counseling to students facing academic, personal, social, or emotional challenges, both in-person and virtually.
- Develop and implement psycho-educational programs and workshops on topics such as stress management, time management, effective study skills, career planning, and mental health awareness.
- Act as a first point of contact for students in distress, offering appropriate support and referrals to specialized internal or external services when necessary.
- Collaborate closely with faculty members, administrative staff, and relevant external agencies to ensure integrated and holistic student support and welfare services.
- Assist students in understanding university policies, procedures, and the wide array of available academic and support resources.
- Facilitate comprehensive career guidance sessions, helping students explore various career paths, develop essential job search skills, and prepare for future employment.
- Maintain confidential student records and adhere strictly to ethical guidelines, professional standards, and data protection regulations.
- Actively participate in the development and continuous review of student welfare policies, programs, and initiatives to enhance student experience.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness and impact of counseling programs and services, making data-driven recommendations for continuous improvement.
Required Skills
- Master's Degree in Counseling, Educational Psychology, Social Work, or a related field from an accredited institution.
- Minimum of 3 years of demonstrated experience in student guidance and counseling, preferably within a higher education setting.
- Proven ability to provide effective individual and group counseling, utilizing various therapeutic approaches.
- Strong understanding of student development theories, contemporary counseling methodologies, and best practices in student welfare.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication (verbal and written), and active listening skills, with a compassionate and empathetic approach.
- Ability to work effectively and sensitively with a diverse student population encompassing various age groups, cultures, and educational backgrounds.
- Strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities efficiently.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience with student information systems or similar database management.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience working specifically with open and distance learning (ODL) student populations.
- In-depth knowledge of the local educational landscape and current career opportunities within Mauritius.
- Fluency in French and Mauritian Creole, in addition to English, to effectively communicate with a broader student body.
- Certification or licensure as a professional counselor or equivalent professional accreditation.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical coverage.
- Exceptional opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career advancement.
- A supportive, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating work environment.
- The chance to contribute significantly to a nationally important educational institution and impact countless lives.
- Generous annual leave allowance and observance of public holidays.
- Participation in a robust institutional pension scheme.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their application, including a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a compelling cover letter outlining their suitability for the role, by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your application clearly demonstrates how your experience and qualifications align with the specific requirements of this position. Only shortlisted candidates who meet our criteria will be contacted for an interview.