The Steve Kearney Bursary 2025
The Steve Kearney Bursary is a prestigious scholarship established to honour the legacy of Stephen Victor Kearney, the first Chairman of Royal Bafokeng Resources, who tragically passed away in April 2004. During his tenure, Kearney played a pivotal role in advancing the interests of the Royal Bafokeng Nation, particularly in the mining sector. In recognition of his contributions, the S V Kearney Education Trust was founded to support historically disadvantaged South African students pursuing higher education in engineering, science, or technology fields.
Bursary Provider: The S V Kearney Education Trust
The S V Kearney Education Trust is dedicated to empowering historically disadvantaged South African (HDSA) students by providing financial assistance for tertiary education. The Trust aims to continue Stephen Kearney's commitment to education and development within the country.
Fields Covered
The Steve Kearney Bursary is an annual award granted to Historically Disadvantaged South Africans who are currently pursuing undergraduate, honours, or master’s degrees at recognised higher education institutions.
This bursary is specifically aimed at students studying in the fields of engineering, science, or technology.
Bursary Coverage
The Steve Kearney Bursary provides a comprehensive financial support package designed to alleviate the financial burden of higher education. This support includes the following:
1. Registration, Tuition, and Examination Fees
All university-related fees necessary for enrolment, coursework, and examinations are fully covered. This ensures that students can focus entirely on their studies without worrying about these substantial costs.
2. University Residence Fees
Accommodation costs for on-campus living are included in the bursary, allowing students to reside in a supportive and convenient environment conducive to academic success.
3. Course Books and Tutorial Materials
The bursary also funds essential academic resources, such as textbooks, study guides, and other learning materials, ensuring students have everything they need to excel in their chosen fields.
4. Living Allowance
A reasonable stipend is provided to assist with daily living expenses. This allowance, determined by the Board of Trustees, helps cover necessities like food, transportation, and other personal expenses, enabling students to maintain a stable and focused lifestyle.
This all-encompassing bursary aims to remove financial barriers, empowering students to thrive academically and pursue their career goals.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. South African Citizenship
Applicants must be South African citizens and belong to the historically disadvantaged demographic group.
2. Academic Level
Candidates must currently be pursuing an undergraduate, honours, or master’s degree.
3. Institution of Study
Applicants must be enrolled at a recognised higher education institution within South Africa.
4. Field of Study
The bursary is available to students specialising in engineering, science, or technology.
5. Application Submission
A completed application form must be submitted, accompanied by a comprehensive CV and the applicant’s full academic record.
6. Essay Requirement
Two essays, written on topics specified by the Board of Trustees, must be included as part of the application.
Meeting these criteria is essential for eligibility and ensures that the bursary supports students who align with its goals and objectives.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should follow these steps to apply:
1. Download the Application Form: Access the form from the official website of the S V Kearney Education Trust. Click here to download application form.
2. Complete the Form: Fill in all required details accurately.
3. Prepare Supporting Documents:Include the following:
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate.
- Updated academic transcript from your current institution.
- Certified copy of your South African ID document.
- Two essays as specified by the Board of Trustees.
4. Submission:
- Email: Send the completed application and supporting documents to Professor Gillian Drennan at Gillian.drennan@wits.ac.za.
- Physical Delivery: Alternatively, deliver the documents to:
Professor Gillian Drennan
Head of School: Geosciences
University of the Witwatersrand
East Campus
1 Jan Smuts Avenue
Braamfontein
Johannesburg
Selection Process
The Board of Trustees carefully evaluates all submitted applications and compiles a shortlist of potential candidates. Those shortlisted will be invited to participate in an interview as part of the final selection process, after which the Board will make its decision.
Terms and Conditions
1. Annual Renewal
The bursary is subject to renewal each year, contingent upon the recipient’s successful and satisfactory academic performance in the previous year.
2. Vacation Work Requirement
Bursary recipients are expected to complete vacation work at Royal Bafokeng Holdings (Pty) Ltd or at another organisation designated by Royal Bafokeng Holdings. This is dependent on the availability of suitable positions.
3. Service Obligation
After completing their studies, students are required to serve one year at Royal Bafokeng Holdings (Pty) Ltd, or another entity chosen by Royal Bafokeng Holdings, for each year of bursary support received.
These conditions ensure that the bursary not only supports the education of deserving students but also contributes to their professional development and the objectives of the sponsoring organisation.
The selection process involves a thorough review of all applications by the Board of Trustees, who will shortlist candidates based on the provided information. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview before the final selection is made.
Closing Date
The application closing date for the Steve Kearney Bursary has not yet been specified. Applicants are encouraged to regularly check the official website or contact the Trust directly for updates on the submission deadline.
Contact Details
For further inquiries or assistance, applicants can contact:
Professor Gillian Drennan
Head of School: Geosciences
University of the Witwatersrand
Landline (office hours): 011 717 6570 / 011 717 6633
Email: Gillian.drennan@wits.ac.za
The Steve Kearney Bursary represents a significant opportunity for historically disadvantaged South African students to advance their education in critical fields. By providing comprehensive financial support and fostering professional development through work placements, the bursary not only honours Stephen Kearney's legacy but also contributes to the growth and transformation of South Africa's engineering, science, and technology sectors.
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