For students passionate about agriculture and related fields, the South African Table Grape Industry (SATI) offers a significant opportunity through its bursary program for the 2025 academic year. SATI, established in 2004, represents the table grape sector and plays a crucial role in maintaining South Africa’s global standing as a leading supplier of table grapes. If you are a student aspiring to make a mark in agriculture or related industries, the SATI bursary could be your key to academic and professional success.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the SATI bursary, from the fields of study it supports to how you can apply and the eligibility criteria.
About the South African Table Grape Industry (SATI)
SATI is the official body representing producers and producer-exporters in South Africa’s table grape industry. With a mission to promote the industry’s sustainability and maintain the country’s reputation as a top supplier of premium quality table grapes, SATI works closely with global retailers. The association also fosters growth and innovation within the industry, creating opportunities for emerging farmers and future leaders through initiatives like the SATI bursary.
Fields of Study Covered by the SATI Bursary
The SATI bursary program supports students studying courses relevant to the table grape industry. These fields are crucial to the development and sustainability of the industry. If you are pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification in any of the following disciplines, you are eligible to apply:
- Agricultural Economics: Focuses on the economic aspects of agriculture, helping to improve efficiency and profitability within the grape industry.
- Entomology: The study of insects, which is vital in controlling pests and ensuring healthy crops.
- Plant Pathology: Specializes in understanding and managing plant diseases to protect grape yields.
- Soil Science: Investigates soil properties and their impact on grape production, helping to optimize vineyard practices.
- Viticulture: The science of grape cultivation, which is directly aligned with SATI’s focus on producing high-quality grapes.
While these are the main areas of focus, students in other fields connected to the table grape industry and its value chain are also encouraged to apply.
What the SATI Bursary Covers
The SATI bursary can provide either partial or full financial assistance to cover:
- Tuition fees: Ensuring that students can focus on their studies without the burden of fees.
- Study materials: Covering textbooks and other essential resources.
- Accommodation: For students who need to live close to their tertiary institution.
- Living expenses: Including food and day-to-day costs.
- Other expenses: If students can provide a reasonable motivation, other necessary costs can also be covered.
Please note that the level of funding each student receives will depend on the available budget and approval from the SATI CEO. The bursary is awarded for one year at a time, and students will need to reapply each year, with approval contingent on academic performance.
Eligibility Requirements for the SATI Bursary
To qualify for the SATI bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- South African citizenship: You must be a citizen of South Africa.
- Relevant field of study: You must be studying a course directly related to the table grape industry.
- Enrolled in a tertiary institution: You must be registered or preliminarily accepted at an accredited South African institution, pursuing either undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
- Part-time or full-time study: Students can apply whether they are studying part-time or full-time.
- Academic performance: You must have achieved at least a “D” symbol in your most recent academic results.
- Career interest in the table grape industry: The bursary is geared toward students who are passionate about contributing to the industry.
Preference Will Be Given To:
- Second-year or higher students: Applicants entering their second or later year of study will have an advantage.
- Previously disadvantaged students: SATI seeks to uplift students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Students involved in the table grape industry: If you or your family are already engaged in the industry, you may have an advantage.
- Land reform beneficiaries, farmworkers, and their children: The bursary prioritizes individuals connected to the land reform movement or the farming community.
- Students part of industry-related research projects: Postgraduate students involved in relevant research will also be prioritized.
How to Apply for the SATI Bursary 2025
Applications for the SATI bursary must be submitted online. Be sure to visit the SATI Bursary Application 2025 page to complete your application.
Documents Required
The following documents must be submitted with your application. These documents should be certified copies to avoid disqualification:
- Certified copy of your ID document.
- Certified copy of your highest qualification.
- Certified copy of your most recent academic results.
- Proof of acceptance or preliminary acceptance from an accredited tertiary institution.
- Postgraduate students must submit a research proposal and proof of acceptance from the relevant researchers.
Ensure that all these documents are attached to avoid delays in processing your application.
Application Deadline
The closing date for the SATI bursary is 31 October 2024, at 23:59. Late applications will not be considered, so be sure to submit all required documents before the deadline to ensure your application is reviewed.
Contact Details for SATI
If you have any questions about the SATI bursary or the application process, you can reach out to SATI directly:
- Telephone: 021 863 0366
- Email: applications@satgi.co.za
Tip: Clicks Foundation Bursary 2025
Why Apply for the SATI Bursary?
By securing the SATI bursary, you can not only fund your education but also gain a foothold in South Africa’s thriving table grape industry. The bursary is an excellent opportunity for those who wish to contribute to the future of agriculture in the country and benefit from a rewarding career in this important sector.
This bursary also prioritizes applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds, making it an important initiative for students who may otherwise struggle to afford higher education.
Learn more: How to Apply for NSFAS Funding for 2025
The South African Table Grape Industry (SATI) bursary is a vital resource for students who are passionate about agriculture, viticulture, and the broader table grape industry. With its support for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies, this bursary offers financial relief while enabling students to focus on developing their skills and contributing to a key part of South Africa’s economy.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss out on this opportunity to apply before the 31 October 2024 deadline. Good luck!