The Subtropical Growers’ Association (Subtrop) of South Africa has announced the opening of applications for the prestigious Lindsey Milne Bursary for the 2025 academic year. This bursary was established in memory of Dr. DL Milne, a figure who made significant contributions to South Africa’s subtropical fruit industry. The Lindsey Milne Bursary provides valuable financial support to students pursuing agricultural studies, particularly those who aspire to build careers in the subtropical fruit industry.
This bursary presents a fantastic opportunity for students who are passionate about agriculture, especially those interested in horticulture and agricultural economics. The bursary is supported by several key associations within the subtropical fruit industry, including the South African Litchi Growers’ Association (SALGA), the South African Avocado Growers’ Association (SAAGA), and the South African Mango Growers’ Association (SAMGA), which are all part of Subtrop.
Fields of Study Covered by the Lindsey Milne Bursary
The Subtrop Lindsey Milne Bursary is specifically targeted at students pursuing a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Agriculture, with a focus on Agricultural Economics or Horticultural Science. These fields are critical to the development and sustainability of South Africa’s subtropical fruit industry, which includes crops like avocados, mangoes, and litchis.
By supporting students in these fields, Subtrop aims to cultivate a new generation of agricultural professionals who will contribute to the growth and innovation of the subtropical fruit industry in South Africa.
Financial Coverage and Selection Process
The Subtrop Lindsey Milne Bursary is awarded for one academic year at a time. However, recipients can have their bursaries renewed based on their academic performance each year. The amount of the bursary will vary depending on the student’s financial needs and is reviewed annually to ensure it meets the specific requirements of each recipient.
Selection for the bursary is based on merit, and a panel of judges appointed by Subtrop will evaluate the applications to determine the most deserving candidates. Applicants who are shortlisted or selected will be notified by 31 December 2024. If you do not hear from the selection panel by this date, consider your application unsuccessful for that academic year.
Key Obligations for Bursary Recipients
Once selected, bursary recipients are required to align their seminars and academic projects with subtropical crops, focusing on avocados, mangoes, and litchis. This focus helps students gain valuable industry-specific knowledge and experience, which will be beneficial to their future careers.
Furthermore, bursary recipients must enter into a contractual agreement with Subtrop. This agreement stipulates that after graduation, recipients are required to work for Subtrop for a period equivalent to the number of years they received the bursary. This ensures that the bursary is not only a financial support system but also a stepping stone into the subtropical fruit industry.
If a bursary recipient fails any of their courses, they will be required to repay the bursary amount over a period that is equal to the length of time they received the bursary, starting from the year following their academic failure.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Subtrop Lindsey Milne Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Matriculation: Applicants must have completed their Matric (Grade 12).
- Field of Study: Applicants must be pursuing a BSc in Agriculture degree, with a major in Horticultural Science or Agricultural Economics.
- Institution: Applicants must be studying at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa.
- Career Intentions: Applicants must have the intention of building a career within South Africa’s subtropical fruit industry.
- Agreement with Terms: Applicants must read and agree to all the terms outlined in the bursary application form.
Failure to meet any of these requirements will disqualify an applicant from consideration.
How to Apply for the Lindsey Milne Bursary
Interested students can apply for the Subtrop Lindsey Milne Bursary by downloading and completing the official application form for 2025. The completed form, along with all required documentation, must be emailed to Ms. Delané Landman at delane@subtrop.co.za. When submitting the application, be sure to include the words “Subtrop Lindsey Milne Bursary” in the email subject line.
Required Supporting Documents
When applying for the Subtrop Lindsey Milne Bursary, applicants must submit certified copies of the following supporting documents:
- ID Document (certified copy)
- Matric Certificate (certified copy)
- Full academic record/transcripts from the university (on official letterhead)
- A Motivational Letter, outlining why the applicant deserves to be awarded the bursary (see tips on writing a compelling motivational letter)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) (no more than 2 pages)
- Details of any other bursaries or scholarships that the applicant currently holds
- Three references (including full name, relationship to the applicant, email address, and contact number)
Tip: SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary 2025
Bursary Application Deadline
The closing date for the Subtrop Lindsey Milne Bursary is 31 October 2024. Applications received after this date will not be considered, so it is crucial to submit all documents well in advance of the deadline.
Contact Details
For any queries regarding the bursary programme, applicants can contact Subtrop directly via the following details:
- Contact Person: Ms. Delané Landman
- Phone: 015 307 3676 / 015 307 3677
- Email: delane@subtrop.co.za
Related: How to Apply for NSFAS Funding for 2025
The Subtrop Lindsey Milne Bursary is a remarkable opportunity for students with a passion for agriculture, particularly those who wish to contribute to the growth and sustainability of the subtropical fruit industry in South Africa. By offering financial support and career development opportunities, Subtrop is ensuring that the future of the industry is in capable hands. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to making an impact in this sector, don’t hesitate to apply before the deadline.