For many South African students, the dream of pursuing higher education can seem out of reach due to financial constraints. SANSOR (South African National Seed Organisation) recognises this challenge and is committed to easing the financial burden of postgraduate students by offering bursaries. These SANSOR Post Graduate Bursaries are specifically designed to assist deserving students who want to make significant contributions to the seed industry through high-quality research.
About the SANSOR Post Graduate Bursaries
SANSOR is a key player in South Africa’s seed industry. Its mission is to support the growth and sustainability of the seed sector by advancing research and innovation. SANSOR’s post-graduate bursary programme aims to financially support students pursuing their Honours, Masters, or Doctorate degrees. The objective is to help these students contribute to the seed industry by conducting scientific research in the following fields:
- Plant Breeding
- Plant Pathology
- Entomology
- Agronomy
- Horticulture
- Pasture Science
- Biotechnology
- Plant Physiology
- Genetics
- Molecular Plant Biology
The bursary programme opens doors for talented students to grow both academically and professionally, allowing them to leave a lasting impact on the industry. SANSOR is particularly interested in funding research that aligns with its mission to advance the seed industry.
Requirements
The SANSOR Post Graduate Bursary scheme is open to South African-born citizens who have been admitted to a recognised tertiary institution for a postgraduate degree, including Honours, MSc, or PhD. This opportunity is especially beneficial for those aiming to pursue research that has a direct impact on the seed industry.
- South African Citizen: Only South African-born citizens are eligible to apply.
- Postgraduate Admission: Applicants must have secured admission for Honours, Masters, or PhD at a recognised tertiary institution in South Africa.
- Relevant Field of Study: The field of study should be one of the priority areas listed by SANSOR (such as Plant Breeding, Biotechnology, or Horticulture).
- Merit-Based Selection: The bursary is awarded based on academic merit, with PhD applications also being evaluated based on SANSOR’s priority needs for specific research areas.
Key Areas of Research Supported by the SANSOR Bursary
The bursary encourages students to delve into scientific research that will benefit the seed industry. Below are the areas that SANSOR is especially focused on:
- Plant Breeding: Research focused on the development of new plant varieties that are more resistant to diseases, pests, and climate changes.
- Plant Pathology: Investigating plant diseases to protect crops and improve yield quality.
- Entomology: Understanding the impact of insects on crops, including both beneficial insects and pests.
- Agronomy: Studying soil management and crop production to enhance sustainability.
- Horticulture: Research on growing fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants that contribute to the economy and the food supply.
- Pasture Science: Focusing on grasslands and their use for livestock feed.
- Biotechnology: Exploring the application of molecular biology techniques in plant improvement.
- Genetics: Researching genetic variations to improve crop species.
- Molecular Plant Biology: Examining the molecular mechanisms of plant growth, development, and adaptation to environmental stressors.
How Does the Bursary Work?
Once awarded, the bursary will cover the academic year’s tuition fees. The funds are released in two instalments and paid directly to the university’s account. This ensures that the bursary is used specifically for the student’s academic progress.
Students should be aware that receiving a bursary for one year is not a guarantee for subsequent years. To receive funding for further years of study, students must submit an acceptable progress report, signed off by their academic supervisor, which details their achievements and future plans.
Practical Support Beyond Financial Assistance
SANSOR goes beyond just offering financial assistance. The organisation actively helps students become more employable by hosting workshops on soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. In addition to that, SANSOR organises field trips to various seed companies, offering students networking opportunities with professionals in the seed industry. These experiences are invaluable for students looking to carve out a career in the seed sector.
Why You Should Apply
If you are a South African citizen with a passion for agricultural sciences, particularly in the seed industry, the SANSOR Post Graduate Bursary is an excellent opportunity to further your education and make a meaningful impact. Not only does it provide financial support, but it also offers hands-on learning experiences and networking opportunities within the industry.
SANSOR is committed to developing the next generation of researchers and scientists who will drive innovation in the seed industry. By applying for this bursary, you are not only advancing your own education but also contributing to a sector that is vital to the country’s agricultural economy.
Recommended for you: How to Apply for Bursaries for the 2025 Academic Year
How to Apply
The application process for the SANSOR Post Graduate Bursaries is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Here’s how you can apply:
- Application Period: The bursary application opens annually on 1st August and closes on 30th September.
- Download Application Form: The application form can be downloaded from the SANSOR website.
- Submission: Completed applications should be sent via email to research@sansor.co.za.
Required Documents for Application:
- Typed Application Form: Fully completed application form, typed and not handwritten.
- Certified Identity Document: A copy of your South African ID.
- Degree Certificates: If you have already received any relevant degree certificates.
- Gantt Chart: A timeline outlining the duration and key milestones of your research project.
- Transcripts: Academic records from all previous studies.
Make sure your application is complete before submission. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Tip: 2025 University Applications (Key Dates and Fees)
Evaluation and Selection of Candidates
The bursary will be awarded based on merit. SANSOR will evaluate applications based on academic excellence and the relevance of the proposed research to the seed industry. For PhD students, SANSOR prioritises research that addresses critical needs in the seed sector.
Successful applicants will be notified shortly after the closing date. It’s important to note that this bursary cannot be combined with other government funding, so applicants need to disclose any government bursaries or scholarships they are receiving.
Reporting and Progress Monitoring
Recipients of the SANSOR Post Graduate Bursary are required to submit:
- Annual Progress Report: Both the student and academic supervisor must submit an annual report outlining the student’s progress.
- Final Report: After completing the degree, a final report in the form of a thesis and a summary must be submitted to SANSOR.
The SANSOR Post Graduate Bursaries provide an invaluable opportunity for South African students to pursue advanced studies in areas critical to the seed industry. By offering financial support, practical skills development, and exposure to industry professionals, SANSOR equips students not only to succeed academically but also to become future leaders in the field of agricultural science.