The JB Marks Education Trust Fund Bursary was established in 1997 by the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM). This initiative aims to empower NUM members and their dependents, focusing on those pursuing qualifications in the construction, mining, and energy sectors.
The Trust is named after John Beaver Marks, a renowned South African activist and leader who believed in the power of education for worker empowerment and emancipation. Since its inception, the Trust has funded over 1000 bursars, awarding more than R280 million to over 2000 beneficiaries.
The primary funding for the Trust comes from the Mineworkers Investment Trust (MIT) via dividends from the Mineworkers Investment Company (MIC).
About the JB Marks Education Trust Fund Bursary Programme – Fields Covered
- The JB Marks Education Trust Fund, in collaboration with the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), invites students to apply for their bursary award for the 2025 academic year.
- The bursaries are available to NUM members and their dependents (children or spouses).
- Annually, approximately 200 bursaries are awarded for undergraduate studies and about 50 for postgraduate studies.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the JB Marks Education Trust Fund Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a NUM member or a dependent of a NUM member (children or spouses).
- Be studying towards an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification (postgraduate funding is only available to NUM members who have never been funded by the Trust).
- Be enrolled at a recognized and registered public tertiary institution in South Africa (Universities, Universities of Technology, or Colleges; private institutions are not eligible).
- Not currently receive any other study funding.
Bursary Coverage Value & Selection
The bursary’s value is determined by two main factors: the availability of funds and the student’s field of study. Successful candidates will receive an acceptance letter via physical delivery, post, or email, and the information will also be disseminated to all NUM national branches. If applicants do not receive correspondence by 31 January 2025 and are not on the NUM regional list, they should consider their application unsuccessful.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the JB Marks Education Trust Fund Bursary Application 2025 portal. Applicants should provide clear, certified copies of the following documents:
- Applicant’s ID document.
- Most recent academic results (Matric or tertiary).
- NUM member’s ID document.
- NUM member’s latest payslip.
- Proof of acceptance from the institution (on the institution’s letterhead).
- Proof of dependency if the applicant’s surname is different from the NUM member (e.g., Abridged Birth Certificate, Clinic Immunization Card, Magistrate Guardianship letter, Medical Aid Beneficiary Certificate, or Marriage Certificate).
Tip: 10 Bursary Interview Preparation Steps for Success
Terms and Conditions
Before applying, note the following terms and conditions:
- The bursary cannot be used to pay off existing study loans or debts.
- Students who drop out within the first six months will be required to repay the bursary.
- If students change their course of study or institution after receiving the bursary, the bursary will be withdrawn.
- Receiving funding from any other source will result in the cancellation of the bursary, and the student will need to repay the amount.
Closing Date
The closing date for the JB Marks Education Trust Fund Bursary applications is 1 July 2024. Late applications will not be considered, so ensure all documents are submitted before the deadline.
Contact Information
For any queries related to this bursary programme, please contact the JB Marks Education Trust Fund directly:
- Email (general inquiries): info@jbmarksedutrust.co.za
- Phone: 011 492 0601
- Email (technical issues): applications@jbmarksedutrust.co.za
The JB Marks Education Trust Fund Bursary offers a significant opportunity for NUM members and their dependents to pursue higher education in the fields of construction, mining, and energy. By providing financial support to undergraduate and postgraduate students, the Trust continues its mission of empowerment through education.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are dedicated to your studies, this bursary could be the key to achieving your academic and career goals. Ensure you submit a complete application with all required documentation before the closing date of 1 July 2024.