SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary Opportunity in Food Science and Technology

Application Deadline: 31 October 2023

Explore the SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary and unlock your potential in the dynamic field of Food Science and Technology. The esteemed South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) Foundation is excited to offer bursaries to aspiring learners interested in pursuing studies in this vibrant sector. This opportunity is geared towards matriculants seeking full-time education, awarded based on academic excellence, commitment to employment equity, and evident potential.

Selection Criteria: SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary

• Priority for matriculants displaying exceptional academic achievement and/or untapped potential.
• Eligibility requires a Further Education & Training Certificate (General) or equivalent with a minimum achievement rating of 5 in both Mathematics and Physical Science. While not mandatory, Life Science is recommended.
• Candidates must be enrolled for full-time undergraduate programs, pursuing a first degree or diploma in Food Science and Technology at a recognized South African Tertiary Institution.
• To retain the bursary in subsequent years, candidates must complete their chosen study program within the prescribed duration of the respective Tertiary institution or the stipulated extended period:
  • Undergraduate Degree (up to BSc Hons) – 4 years
  • B. Tech Degree – 5 years
  • Diploma – 4 years
• Applicants should be South African citizens, with at least 3 years of prior residency in the country.
• A concise personal statement (1 A4 page) outlining how their journey in food science and technology will create positive change in their lives and the scientific community is required.
• A character reference from an educator who has known the applicant in an educational capacity for a minimum of 3 years is essential.
• Applications will undergo thorough review by the SAAFoST Foundation, with their decision being final and binding.

Bursary Inclusions: The bursary encompasses financial support for:

• Actual tuition fees as per the institution’s statement of account, up to a maximum of R40 000.00 per annum.
• Payments are disbursed directly to the Tertiary institution in two installments, with the second installment contingent upon satisfactory first-semester results.

Bursary Conditions: Recipients will be required to adhere to the following conditions:

• Bursary allocation is not guaranteed, as the SAAFoST Foundation retains the right to withhold awards.
• Only applications submitted within the specified timeframe, completed with necessary forms, and accepted by a university will be considered.
• Students must join SAAFoST as members within the first three months of registration and maintain active membership throughout their study period.
• Regular six-monthly reports and exam results are to be provided to the SAAFoST Foundation, highlighting academic progress and involvement in SAAFoST activities.
• The bursary might, at the discretion of the SAAFoST Foundation, be converted into a repayable loan under specific circumstances.

Application Process: Download the application form in Adobe PDF or MS Word format from the official website.

Key Dates:

• Application Deadline: 31 October 2023
• Review Period: November
• Award Announcement: December

Ensure your application includes:

• A recent passport-size photograph
• Certified copies of ID documentation
• Certified copies of Grade 11 and last Grade 12 examination results, with an Achievement Rating of 5 or 60-69% in Mathematics and Physical Science
• Personal Statement (Part D)
• Reference Letter (Part D)

The granted bursary will be managed by the SAAFoST Foundation, in collaboration with Student Liaison Representatives at academic institutions.

For any inquiries or submission of completed applications, reach out to the SAAFoST Membership Development Officer:

• Tel: 071 870 2633
• E-mail: irene@saafost.org.za

Discover more on the official website: SAAFoST Matriculant Bursary