Job Description (JD)
| Job Title: | Legal Assistant | ||
| Grade: | 9.1 | Monthly salary including allowances: | D23, 000 to D25, 000 per month |
| Contract Type: | Temporary/Contract | ||
| Reporting to: | Head of the Legal Unit | ||
ABOUT US
The Organisation
Established in 1999, the University of The Gambia (UTG) is a growing and dynamic institution committed to supporting the socio-economic and environmental transformation of The Gambia and the sub-region. This is achieved through relevant and high-quality education that aligns with The Gambia’s National Development Plan, the African Union Agenda 2063, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030.
UTG offers a broad spectrum of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes tailored to national, regional, and continental development needs. With campuses located in Banjul, Kanifing, Brikama, Faraba, and Farafenni, UTG provides access to higher education to approximately 7,000 students annually, including international students.
About the Legal Unit
The Legal Unit is a newly created entity in the Office of the Vice Chancellor to respond to the rapidly evolving needs of the university. The Head of Unit, assisted by support staff, is answerable to the Vice-Chancellor. The functions includes giving legal advice or opinion to any constituent of the University as required by the Vice Chancellor and draft legal documents, comprising but not limited to legal correspondences, agreements, Memorandum of Understanding, conveyances, etc. The Unit also represents the University in legal proceedings and collaborates with external legal counsel as needed.
Job Overview
The Legal Assistant assists the Head of Unit (HoU) in executing the functions of the Unit, specified in the Terms of Reference of the Unit, as shall be assigned or delegated by the HoU from day to day. Prioritize tasks, and handle multiple responsibilities to meet deadlines. Represent the HoU in committees/meetings to support the work of the university and other partners outside the university.
Key Responsibilities
- Legal Advisory Services:
Provide timely and well-researched legal advice or opinions to the Vice-Chancellor and any unit, department, or constituent body of the University on a wide range of legal and regulatory matters. Ensure that such advice supports sound decision-making and institutional compliance. - Drafting and Reviewing Legal Documents:
Draft, review, and revise legal documents including but not limited to contracts, service agreements, memoranda of understanding (MOUs), leases, conveyances, legal notices, and formal correspondences to ensure legal accuracy, clarity, and protection of the University’s interests. - Institutional Governance Support:
Ensure that all statutory, standing, and ad-hoc committees or panels set up by the University are properly constituted in line with governing instruments. Provide ongoing legal support to ensure these bodies operate within the legal and regulatory framework of the University. - Committee Participation:
Serve as a member of statutory and ad-hoc University committees where legal expertise is required. Provide clear, actionable legal guidance during deliberations and contribute to the development of policies, procedures, and institutional frameworks. - Contractual and Commercial Advice:
Advise University management on legal issues arising from contracts, tenders, service agreements, and other commercial transactions. Identify legal risks and assist in negotiating terms to minimize institutional exposure. - Intellectual Property and Research Compliance:
Provide legal input on matters related to intellectual property rights, copyright, patents, licensing, and research agreements. Assist in ensuring that research activities comply with ethical and legal standards. - Litigation and Dispute Resolution:
Represent the University in legal disputes, including preparing case files, court documentation, and appearing before courts or tribunals when required. Collaborate with and supervise external solicitors or legal representatives when engaged on University matters. - Engagement with External Counsel:
Advise on the selection, retention, and management of external lawyers. Prepare briefs and instructions, and act as liaison between the University and external legal service providers to ensure effective representation. - Compliance Monitoring:
Monitor changes in national laws and regulations affecting the higher education sector. Advise University leadership on the implications of legal and policy changes and ensure institutional policies are updated accordingly. - Legislative Interpretation and Guidance:
Interpret and provide guidance on statutes, university regulations, and government directives relevant to the University’s operations, including areas such as employment, procurement, contracts, land tenure, and corporate governance. - Administrative and Other Duties:
Provide regular legal updates to University management, maintain records of legal opinions and case outcomes, and respond to legal queries. Undertake any other legal assignments as delegated by the Vice-Chancellor or University Legal Adviser.
Person Specification: Qualification and Experience
| Description | Essential | Desirable | |
| Qualifications | LL. B degree | ✓ | |
| Knowledge, experience, and expertise | Minimum of 2 years Work or internship experience in law offices or institutions that affords relevant experience. | ✓ | |
| Ability to conduct independent legal research. | ✓ | ||
| Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders in and outside the university | ✓ | ||
| Ability to work under pressure and deliver promptly | ✓ | ||
| Sound knowledge of Gambian laws and university regulatory frameworks. | ✓ | ||
| Experience in drafting legal instruments, contracts, and policy documents. | ✓ | ||
| Strong advocacy and legal research skills. | ✓ | ||
| Ability to communicate legal concepts clearly to non-legal stakeholders. | ✓ | ||
| Strong organizational and time management skills. | |||
| Proficiency in computer and internet usage, plus an exceptional ability in word-processing. | ✓ | ||
| Skills and values | Excellent communication skills, both orally and written. | ✓ | |
| Outstanding interpersonal skills and presentation skills. | ✓ | ||
| Strong time management skills. | ✓ | ||
| Ability to work independently and as part of a team. | ✓ | ||
| Capable of working with minimum supervision. | ✓ | ||
| Able to accept collegiate responsibilities and act accordingly | ✓ |
How to Apply
Submit your completed application form and a current CV to:
Dr. Amy Aidara Jah
Director of Human Resources
Email: utghr@utg.edu.gm
Address: Human Resources Directorate, UTG Law Faculty, Kanifing Campus
Application Deadline: 12:00 noon, January 23, 2026
For inquiries, contact Prof. O. Opadere, Head, Legal Unit
📞 Phone: 5318551 | 📧 Email: oopadere@utg.edu.gm
Join UTG and be part of shaping the future of higher education and legal leadership in The Gambia!