MINISTRY OF INFORMATION, COMMUNICATIONS, SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION
EXTERNAL CIRCULAR NO. 3 OF 2025
Ref: CM/CIR/30
Applications are invited from suitably qualified local candidates for the following position:
POSITION: Radio Newscaster Assistant
Number of Positions: One (1)
Department: Radio Lesotho
Responsible To: Sub-Editor
Job Summary
The Radio Newscaster Assistant is an enthusiastic and dynamic professional who participates in the creative cycle of news broadcasting. Working closely with editors, reporters, and other anchors, the incumbent is responsible for gathering information, preparing and presenting newscasts throughout the day, and interviewing guests. The ideal candidate must stay informed on current events and present stories in an engaging, informative, and unbiased manner.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- Attend daily editorial briefings with the Editor, Sub-Editor, reporters, and other anchors.
- Collaborate with the editorial team to select stories for broadcast based on audience relevance and interest.
- Organize and structure newscasts to prioritize impactful stories.
- Revise scripts and prepare to deliver them live on air.
- Incorporate late-breaking news into existing newscasts in real time.
- Conduct on-air commentary where appropriate.
- Interview guests and individuals relevant to news stories.
- Introduce correspondents reporting on scene and conduct live Q&A sessions.
- Uphold the highest ethical and professional standards of journalism.
- Stay up to date on local, national, and international news and trends.
- Maintain regular communication with industry professionals and news sources.
Skills Required
- Proven experience as a news anchor or presenter.
- Strong understanding of the newscast production process.
- Broad knowledge of local, national, and international affairs (political, economic, and cultural).
- Confident, professional on-air presence with strong improvisation skills.
- Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Active social media presence and awareness of digital broadcasting trends.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
- Flexibility to work varied shifts, including weekends and evenings.
Representational Duties
- Liaise with media houses, international organizations, and television or radio stations.
- Attend workshops, conferences, and professional development sessions related to news and broadcasting.
Job Specification
- Diploma in Journalism, Media Studies, or Broadcasting (or equivalent qualification).
- Prior experience in news production or broadcasting will be an added advantage.
Responsibilities
For Work of Others:
Maintains effective working relations with reporters, sub-editors, editors, programme producers, librarians, and the Head of News.
For Property (Equipment, Materials, and Finance):
Ensures safety and proper handling of studio equipment, computers, and recorded materials under their custody.
For Effect of Errors:
Responsible for ensuring accuracy in live and recorded broadcasts. Errors may result in misinformation or damage to public trust.
For Safety of Others:
Ensures all safety and operational procedures are followed to protect personnel during broadcast operations.
Complexity
- Authorized to use creativity and editorial judgment to enhance programme structure and content flow.
Problem Solving
- Regularly addresses production and broadcast-related challenges, especially during live transmissions.
Supervision Received
- Works independently under the supervision of the Editor, Sub-Editor, and Senior Reporter.
Dexterity
- Requires strong eyesight, listening ability, and concentration during recordings and live productions.
- Demands artistic and creative resourcefulness to maintain engaging on-air performance.
Contacts
The incumbent will maintain professional interaction with:
- Senior Reporter and Sub-Editor during daily meetings and editorial briefings.
- News, Programme, and Engineering personnel for operational coordination.
- Other departments within the Ministry of Communications.
- External organizations and the public to discuss or disseminate relevant information.
Effort
Mental Effort:
High — requires focus and concentration during live and recorded broadcasts.
Physical Effort:
Minimal — mostly studio-based, occasional field coverage.
Emotional Effort:
High — must remain calm and professional under pressure, especially during breaking news or live broadcasts.
Working Conditions
Unfavourable Conditions:
May work in cold studio environments or outdoors under challenging conditions during field reporting.
Hazards:
Potential exposure to politically charged or high-risk environments, particularly during elections or national crises.
Application Instructions
Applications should be made on the relevant forms, i.e. G.P. 103 for first appointment and G.P. 104 for serving officers. Applications must include:
- Certified copies of educational certificates,
- An up-to-date and duly filled performance appraisal form,
- A copy of the confirmation letter, and
- A certified copy of the national ID.
All applications should be addressed to:
The Human Resource Office
Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation
P.O. Box 36, Moposo House, 3rd Floor
Maseru 100
Applications must be hand-delivered to the Human Resource Office, Moposo House (3rd Floor).
Closing Date: 26th November 2025