The maize industry is one of South Africa’s most important agricultural sectors, ensuring food security and supporting thousands of livelihoods. To drive continuous research, innovation, and skills development, the Maize Trust has opened applications for its 2026 postgraduate bursary programme
This bursary gives talented young researchers the chance to pursue advanced studies while contributing directly to the growth and sustainability of the maize value chain.
Who Can Apply?
The Maize Trust Bursary Programme is aimed at postgraduate students who want to advance the maize industry through meaningful academic research. Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be registered for full-time study at a recognized university of their choice.
- Be pursuing Master’s (dissertation) or Doctoral (PhD) studies. (Undergraduate or diploma qualifications do not qualify.)
- The chosen field of study must be directly relevant to the South African maize industry.
- Applicants must not receive other study-related funding unless approved by the Maize Trust.
- Recipients must commit to working in the maize industry for the same number of years they received funding.
Application Requirements
A complete application package must include:
- A completed bursary application form.
- A certified copy of a South African ID or passport.
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV).
- The latest academic transcript/record on official university letterhead.
- Proof of registration and a recent fee statement (if available).
- A signed formal bursary agreement with the Trust (upon acceptance).
Applicants must also have a designated supervisor, approved by the Maize Trust. Both the student and supervisor are required to submit annual progress reports — funding will only continue if satisfactory progress is made.
Funding Value and Duration
The Maize Trust provides generous funding to cover essential academic expenses:
- Master’s by Dissertation (MSc): R99,750 per annum for two years (conditional on progress reports).
- Doctoral Research (PhD): R131,250 per annum for three years (also conditional on progress).
This financial support allows postgraduate students to focus fully on their research without the stress of financial burdens.
How to Apply
Applications for the bursary must be submitted online.
👉 APPLY FOR THE MAIZE TRUST BURSARY PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Commitment to the Maize Industry
The bursary is not just about financial support — it is an investment in the maize industry’s future. Successful graduates are expected to work within the industry for the same number of years they received funding, ensuring that their expertise directly benefits the sector.
Application Deadline
The closing date for the Maize Trust Bursary Programme 2026 is 30 September 2025. Late applications will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to prepare and submit all required documents well in advance.
Conclusion
The Maize Trust Bursary Programme 2026 is more than financial aid — it’s a platform for ambitious researchers to contribute to food security and innovation in one of South Africa’s most vital industries.
If you are passionate about agriculture, research, and building a career that matters, this bursary offers the perfect opportunity to pursue your postgraduate dreams while shaping the future of the maize sector.