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The South African Cultivar and Technology Agency (SACTA) is proud to announce the opening of applications for its prestigious 2025 postgraduate bursary program. Designed to support the next generation of leaders in South Africa’s grain and oilseed breeding and technology sector, this bursary provides both financial assistance and professional growth opportunities for deserving students.
About the SACTA Bursary
The SACTA Postgraduate Bursary aims to foster innovation and research in South Africa’s agricultural sector, specifically in the areas of grain and oilseed production. It supports students at Honours, Master’s (by Dissertation), and Doctoral levels who are pursuing research that aligns with SACTA’s mission to enhance food security and improve the quality and quantity of locally produced grains and oilseeds.
Key Details
- Bursary Name: SACTA Postgraduate Bursary 2025
- Organized By: South African Cultivar and Technology Agency (SACTA)
- Duration: Up to 2 years for Master’s students; up to 3 years for PhD candidates
- Stipend: Up to R99,750 per year for Master’s students; up to R131,250 per year for PhD students
- Location: Must be registered at a recognized South African tertiary institution
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen
- Academic Level: Must be enrolled in an Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral program
- Academic Excellence: A strong academic record, typically a minimum of 70% at undergraduate level
- Relevant Research: Proposed research must align with grain and oilseed breeding and technology and receive approval from SACTA
- Full-Time Study: Only full-time students are eligible
- Funding Restrictions: Applicants may not receive other bursaries with a contractual work obligation
Benefits of the Bursary
Receiving the SACTA bursary offers several advantages:
- Financial Support: A generous annual stipend to cover tuition and living expenses
- Focus on Research: Freedom to dedicate full attention to important research without financial strain
- Career Opportunities: Bursary recipients are offered employment in the South African grain and oilseed industry for a period equal to the bursary duration, providing hands-on experience
- Industry Mentorship: Students collaborate with SACTA-approved supervisors, creating valuable industry connections
How to Apply
The application process is fully online and requires the following steps:
- Complete the Online Application: Submit your details via the official SACTA bursary portal
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Include certified copies of your South African ID, CV, academic transcripts, a passport photo, a motivational letter, and research proposal details
- Submit Documents: Upload all required documentation; incomplete applications will not be considered
- Proof of Registration: If available, include registration confirmation and fee statements from your institution
- Sign Legal Undertaking: Complete the bursary agreement form
Successful applicants will be notified within eight weeks after the application deadline.
Selection Process
Applications are carefully reviewed by SACTA directors, and shortlisted candidates will be interviewed via telephone. Approval of the research proposal and supervisor is mandatory before the bursary agreement is finalized.
Important Dates
- Application Opening: Now
- Application Deadline: October 1, 2025
This bursary represents an excellent opportunity for postgraduate students to advance their studies, contribute to South Africa’s agricultural development, and gain valuable industry experience.
