Applications open for 2018 university bursaries

SOUTH African youths from poor backgrounds with aspirations in engineering, science and accounting have a chance to study further.

Monica Luwes, who manages the graduate centre at Sasol’s corporate bursary services, said top achieving maths and science Grade 12 pupils could apply for an all-inclusive bursary to study at any approved South African public university or university of technology in 2018.

Luwes said for more than 30 years Sasol has provided comprehensive bursaries to top-performing pupils in these fields.

The international integrated chemicals and energy company invests at least R79.6-million in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education as part of its investment in programmes that stimulate sustainable socioeconomic development and work against South Africa’s critical skills gap.

She said the company understood that ensuring students’ academic success took more than just paying for their studies.

“That is why the bursary gives learners much more than just funding for their studies but also emotional and other support.

“It is through our dedicated support team that gives bursars personalised attention and career support, as well as life guidance, that we ensure that they succeed,” said Luwes.

The bursary programme covers tuition fees, accommodation, meals, textbooks and pocket money.

“Furthermore, successful applicants also receive performancebased awards and allowances for laptops and other study tools such as calculators.”

She said education was one of the pillars of the company’s social investment.

“Through this programme, the group aims to uplift the communities of South Africa.

“Top-performing bursars also have the opportunity to start and build their careers at Sasol, which has operations in Sasolburg in the Free State and Secunda in Mpumalanga,” she said.

Applicants need 80% in maths, 70% in science and 60% in English to be considered. The company also provides postgraduate opportunities in science and engineering for deserving students.

Luwes added: “This is a lifetime opportunity for young, talented and ambitious learners.

“The aim of the bursary is to give learners peace of mind by taking care of all their education needs and related costs. All the bursars have to do is to focus on their studies and get the best results.” Applications can done through

; closing date is April 30. —co.za