The SANSA Bursary Programme 2025
South Africa’s journey towards a prosperous
and sustainable future hinge on the development of critical skills in science
and engineering. To address the pressing need for qualified professionals in
these fields, the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) has introduced a
comprehensive bursary programme aimed at postgraduate students. This initiative
aligns with the National Development Plan’s goals and seeks to ensure that the
country is well-equipped with the expertise required to drive innovation and
growth.
About SANSA
The South African National Space
Agency (SANSA) is a pivotal organization dedicated to advancing the country's
capabilities in space science and technology. Established to promote and
develop space-related activities, SANSA plays a critical role in the national
space strategy, focusing on space research, satellite development, and data
collection. By leveraging space science, SANSA aims to address various
socio-economic challenges, enhance national security, and contribute to global
scientific knowledge. The agency's initiatives span across multiple domains,
including Earth observation, space weather monitoring, and satellite
navigation, making it a cornerstone of South Africa's scientific and
technological progress. Through its various programs, including the
postgraduate bursary scheme, SANSA is committed to building a robust talent
pipeline that will drive innovation and support the nation's long-term
developmental goals.
The Importance of Science and Engineering Graduates
The advancement of science and engineering is pivotal to South Africa’s development. As the country faces numerous challenges, including energy sustainability, environmental conservation, and technological innovation, there is an urgent need for skilled graduates who can contribute to solving these issues. The National Development Plan highlights the significance of increasing the number of science and engineering graduates to bolster the country’s human resources and enhance its competitive edge on the global stage.
Overview of the SANSA Bursary Programme
The SANSA bursary programme is
designed to support postgraduate students pursuing degrees in science and
engineering. This initiative not only aims to alleviate the financial burden on
students but also to cultivate a generation of professionals equipped with the
knowledge and skills necessary to advance South Africa’s scientific and
technological frontiers.
Bursary Criteria
The selection process for the SANSA
bursary is rigorous, ensuring that the most deserving candidates are awarded.
The main criteria for selection include:
1) Financial Need: Applicants must
demonstrate a genuine need for financial assistance to continue their studies.
2) Academic Potential: Candidates
must exhibit strong academic performance and potential for future success in
their chosen field.
3) Career-Oriented Study Programmes:
The bursary supports students enrolled in programmes that are directly related
to careers in science and engineering.
Application Requirements and Process
To be considered for the SANSA
bursary, applicants must adhere to several requirements and follow a structured
application process.
1) Submission of Academic Records:
Applicants are required to upload their complete academic records, including
fee statements for all study years. This documentation is crucial in assessing
the applicant’s academic performance and financial need.
2) Comprehensive Application: The
application form must be thoroughly completed, with all sections filled out
accurately. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
3) Certified Documents: All accompanying documents must be certified. This includes academic records, fee statements, and any other required documentation.
4) Supervisor Testimonial Forms:
Applicants must have their university supervisors’ complete testimonial forms,
which should be uploaded along with the application form. These testimonials
provide insight into the applicant’s academic potential and suitability for the
bursary.
Bursary Values and Duration
The SANSA bursary programme provides
funding for postgraduate degrees at various levels. The bursary values are
currently under review for 2025, and any changes will be communicated in due
course. As of now, the funding structure is as follows:
Honours Degree: R100,000 for one year
Master’s Degree: R120,000 per year for two years
Doctorate Degree: R140,000 per year for three years.
It is important to note that master’s
and doctoral bursary recipients must reapply each year for continued funding.
The continuation of bursary support is contingent on the student’s satisfactory
progress during the previous year.
Additional Funding Considerations
Applicants who already hold other
bursaries may still be eligible for the SANSA bursary, provided that the total
funding does not exceed the amounts specified above. In cases where an
applicant has a lesser bursary, SANSA may offer a top-up bursary to bridge the
financial gap, ensuring that the student can focus on their studies without
financial constraints.
Guarantee of Support
While the SANSA bursary programme
aims to provide consistent support to its recipients, it is important to
understand that funding for continuing years is not guaranteed. Ongoing support
is dependent on the student’s academic performance and progress, emphasizing
the importance of maintaining high standards throughout their studies.
How to apply?
Application Deadline
The completed application must be
submitted no later than 30 September 2024. Late submissions will not be
accepted.
Contact Information
Prospective applicants are encouraged
to complete their applications meticulously and submit them by the stipulated
deadline. All enquiries regarding the bursary programme should be directed to
the following email address: grants@sansa.org.za. Timely and clear
communication with SANSA is essential for resolving any issues or clarifying
any doubts during the application process.
The SANSA bursary programme
represents a significant step towards fostering a skilled and knowledgeable
workforce in South Africa. By providing financial support to postgraduate
students in science and engineering, SANSA is contributing to the national goal
of increasing the number of qualified professionals in these crucial fields.
This initiative not only aids individual students but also has far-reaching
implications for the country’s development and sustainability.
In conclusion, the SANSA bursary
programme is an invaluable opportunity for postgraduate students to pursue
their academic and career aspirations without the burden of financial
constraints. Through this initiative, SANSA is investing in the future of South
Africa, empowering a new generation of scientists and engineers who will drive
innovation and progress for years to come. Aspiring candidates are encouraged
to apply and take advantage of this remarkable opportunity to contribute to the
nation’s growth and success.
Best of luck to all applicants.
