If you’re a matriculant with a passion for science and a dream to pursue a career in food science and technology, the South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) Foundation is offering a bursary that could help make that dream a reality. The SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary is designed to support South African students who excel academically, demonstrate potential, and aim to make a positive impact in the scientific community.
About the SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary?
The SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary is aimed at supporting full-time undergraduate students who wish to pursue a degree or diploma in the field of Food Science and Technology. Awarded by the SAAFoST Foundation, this bursary is based on academic merit, employment equity, and the candidate’s potential. The bursary covers essential costs associated with studying, including tuition fees up to a maximum of R40,000 per year.
The bursary is designed to open doors for talented individuals to become the future leaders in the food science and technology industry, promoting innovation, food safety, and nutrition in South Africa.
Requirements
To be eligible for this bursary, applicants need to meet the following criteria:
- Matriculants with Academic Excellence: Preference is given to students who have achieved strong academic results in high school. You should have a Further Education & Training Certificate (FETC) [General] or equivalent with a minimum achievement rating of 5 in both Mathematics and Physical Science. A background in Life Science is recommended but not compulsory.
- Enrolment in Food Science and Technology: Applicants must already be accepted or enrolled in a full-time undergraduate degree or diploma in Food Science and Technology at a recognized South African tertiary institution.
- South African Citizenship: Only South African citizens who have lived in the country for at least three years prior to application are eligible.
- Potential and Character: Candidates must provide a personal statement outlining their passion for food science and technology and explain how they believe their education in this field will help them contribute to the scientific community and improve their own lives. A reference letter from a teacher or mentor, who has known the applicant for at least three years, is also required to speak on the candidate’s character and potential.
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Terms and Conditions of the Bursary
Receiving the SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary is not automatic, and certain conditions must be met:
- Study Duration: Students must complete their degree or diploma within the following timeframes:
- Undergraduate Degree (including BSc Hons): 4 years
- B. Tech Degree: 5 years
- Diploma: 4 years
- SAAFoST Membership: Once you’ve registered at your tertiary institution, you must become a member of SAAFoST within the first three months. You’ll also be expected to remain an active member throughout your studies.
- Academic Performance: To continue receiving the bursary, you must maintain satisfactory academic results. If a student fails any subject or does not complete their studies within the specified period, the bursary can be converted into a loan, which must be repaid.
- Progress Reports: The recipient must provide a six-monthly progress report to the SAAFoST Foundation, including academic results and participation in SAAFoST activities.
- Bursary Suspension: If the student fails to complete their courses or pass any subject during a bursary year, the bursary may be suspended for the following year. However, if the student manages to complete all the outstanding courses, the Foundation will refund the suspended tuition fees, and the bursary will continue as before.
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How to Apply
If you meet the criteria and wish to apply, here’s what you need to do:
- Download the Application Form: The application form is available in Adobe PDF or MS Word format on the SAAFoST website.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill in all the required information. Make sure to complete every section thoroughly.
- Submit the Required Documents: Along with the application form, you will need to submit:
- A head & shoulders passport-size photograph.
- A certified copy of your South African ID or RSA passport.
- Certified copies of your Grade 11 and final Grade 12 results, showing at least an achievement rating of 5 (60-69%) in Mathematics and Physical Science.
- A personal statement (no longer than one A4 page) that explains how you believe your education in food science and technology will make a positive difference.
- A reference letter from a teacher or mentor who has known you for at least three years.
- Send Your Application: Completed applications, along with the required documents, must be sent to the SAAFoST Membership Development Officer.
- Email: Send your completed application to irene@saafost.org.za.
- Phone: If you have questions or need assistance, you can contact the SAAFoST Membership Development Officer at 071 870 2633.
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Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 31 October 2024
- Review Period: November 2024
- Bursary Award Announcement: December 2024
Make sure you apply early and provide all necessary documentation to increase your chances of success.
The SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary offers a fantastic opportunity for students who are passionate about food science and technology. It provides the financial support needed to pursue an education in this exciting field while encouraging academic excellence and active participation in the scientific community. If you’re committed to making a difference and pursuing a rewarding career in this area, don’t miss the chance to apply.