Are you ready to elevate your academic journey and pursue a fulfilling career in academia? The Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme (NESP) offers an exceptional opportunity for driven students to embark on this transformative journey. Supported by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Phase 2 of the Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme provides funding, mentorship, and hands-on experience to promising scholars.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to the Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme, including the opportunities available, eligibility criteria, and the benefits of joining this prestigious initiative.
What is the Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme?
The Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme is a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening South Africa’s academic profession by identifying and developing talented individuals. This programme is designed to:
- Support Honours and Master’s degree studies.
- Provide academic internships for practical experience.
- Guide participants into a successful academic career.
The programme’s duration spans three years for Master’s scholarships and four years for Honours scholarships, offering participants both academic and professional development opportunities.
Scholarship Opportunities in the Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme
The Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme offers three distinct pathways for prospective students:
Honours Scholarships
- Number of Positions: 18
- Programme Duration: 4 years
- 1 year of Honours study.
- 2 years of Master’s study.
- 1 year of academic internship at a host university.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- A Level 7 qualification (Bachelor’s degree) with a minimum 65% average.
- Passion for academia and a commitment to becoming an academic professional.
Fields of Study:
Opportunities span across various universities and disciplines, including:
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology: Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
- Stellenbosch University: Mathematics, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence.
- University of Cape Town: African Feminist Studies and Philosophy.
- University of Johannesburg: Biotechnology and Food Biotechnology.
- University of Venda: Early Childhood Development.
- Vaal University of Technology: STEM Education and Sports Management.
Application Deadline: 28 February 2025.
Start Date: 2026 academic year.
Master’s Scholarships in France
- Number of Positions: 12
- Programme Duration: 3 years
- 2 years of Master’s study at a public university in France.
- 1 year of academic internship in South Africa.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- A Level 8 qualification (Honours degree) with a minimum 65% average.
- Willingness to return to South Africa to complete the internship.
Fields of Study:
Selected fields at top French institutions include:
- Technology & Robotics (Cape Peninsula University of Technology).
- Marine Science Physical Oceanography (Durban University of Technology).
- Biomedical Science (Mangosuthu University of Technology).
- Chemical Engineering (Green Energy) (Durban University of Technology).
- Nursing (Tshwane University of Technology).
Applicants must apply to public French universities and secure admission to qualify for the scholarship.
Application Deadline: 28 February 2025.
For details, visit: NESP France Opportunities.
National Master’s Scholarships
- Number of Positions: 68
- Programme Duration: 3 years
- 2 years of Master’s study at a South African university.
- 1 year of academic internship at the recruiting university.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- A Level 8 qualification (Honours degree) with a minimum 65% average.
Fields of Study:
This opportunity includes diverse disciplines, such as:
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology: Electronic Communication and Satellite Technology.
- Durban University of Technology: Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Thermodynamics, and Water Engineering.
- Nelson Mandela University: Local Government Law and Mechatronics.
- University of Pretoria: Civil Engineering (Geotechnical and Structural).
- University of Zululand: Social Work and Physics.
- Walter Sisulu University: Space Science and Quantum Chemistry.
Application Deadline: 28 February 2025.
Start Date: 2024 academic year.
Related: Department of Employment and Labour to Hire 20 000 Labour Inspectors
Why Choose the Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme?
Joining the Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme offers numerous benefits that extend beyond funding:
- Comprehensive Financial Support: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and related study costs.
- Academic Internships: Gain hands-on experience in teaching and research at leading universities.
- Mentorship Opportunities: Be guided by experienced academics who will nurture your professional growth.
- International Exposure: For those studying in France, enjoy global academic experiences and networks.
- Career Pathways: The Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme creates a direct route into academic roles, contributing to South Africa’s education system.
Application Process
How to Apply:
- Visit the Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme Application Portal: Apply Here.
- Choose your preferred opportunity (Honours, France Master’s, or National Master’s).
- Submit your application with all required documents, including:
- Academic transcripts.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Motivation letter.
Key Deadlines:
- Applications Close: 28 February 2025.
- Start Dates:
- Honours: 2026 academic year.
- National Master’s: 2024 academic year.
- France Master’s: Dependent on university start dates in France.
Contact Information
For additional information or assistance, please reach out to:
- Email: nesp@ru.ac.za
- Application Portal: NESP Applications
- France Opportunities: NESP France
Building the Future of Academia
The Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme is more than a scholarship initiative—it’s an investment in South Africa’s academic future. By developing the next generation of educators and researchers, this initiative plays a crucial role in transforming higher education and fostering innovation.