South African students aspiring to pursue postgraduate studies in critical skill areas have a golden opportunity through the Mike Brown Scholarship. Offered by Nedbank’s Eyethu Community Trust, this scholarship provides full financial support to academically talented and financially deserving students.
The initiative is geared towards fostering expertise in information technology, engineering, healthcare, and other key fields to help shape South Africa’s future economic growth and development.
What is the Mike Brown Scholarship?
The Mike Brown Scholarship is a fully funded postgraduate scholarship designed to address South Africa’s shortage of skilled professionals. The program specifically focuses on students pursuing qualifications that are in high demand, including engineering, IT, healthcare, environmental sciences, business, and public policy.
This scholarship aims to develop the next generation of industry leaders by supporting students who show academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to driving innovation.
Comprehensive Financial Support
Successful applicants will receive full financial coverage, including:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Learning materials
- Equipment, such as a laptop and necessary software
- International study opportunities, including travel and accommodation
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Psychosocial mentorship from top industry leaders to enhance career prospects
Who Can Apply?
1. Academic Excellence
- A bachelor’s degree with an average of 65% or higher
- Minimum 60% in each course
- Must be pursuing postgraduate studies (Honours or Master’s) in a scarce skills discipline
2. Demographic Considerations
- Preference given to students of African, Indian, and Coloured descent to promote diversity and inclusion
3. Citizenship
- Must be a South African citizen
4. Financial Need
- Applicants must provide proof of financial need through supporting documents
5. Commitment to Development
- Must demonstrate a passion for South Africa’s growth and economic development
- Prior involvement in community service is advantageous
6. Leadership Potential & Community Involvement
- Must show leadership qualities in academic, professional, or social settings
- Proven community engagement and social impact contributions
7. University Admission
- Must have confirmed admission to a public university or university of technology in South Africa
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents to be considered:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Academic transcripts, including the most recent results
- Financial need affidavit, signed by the applicant and guardians
- Income and expenditure statement for the household
- Certified copies of IDs for all income-earning parents or guardians
- Payslips or employer letters (not older than three months)
- Latest three months’ bank statements for applicant and guardians
- Home loan and municipal rates statements (not older than three months)
- Proof of additional income, such as pension, grants, rental income, etc.
Selection Process
- Only applications submitted through the university’s bursary office will be reviewed
- Incomplete applications will be disqualified
- Applications will be screened and shortlisted based on merit and eligibility
- Shortlisted candidates will undergo psychometric assessments and virtual interviews
Fields of Study Considered
The Mike Brown Scholarship prioritizes postgraduate studies in scarce and critical skills fields, including:
- Engineering & Technology – Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Chemical, Aerospace, Renewable Energy, Nanotechnology
- Healthcare & Biomedical Sciences – Nursing, Public Health, Clinical Research, Pharmacology, Oncology, Cardiology
- ICT & Data Science – Software Development, Cybersecurity, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence
- Finance & Accounting – Chartered Accountancy, Financial Analysis, Risk Management
- Environmental Science – Sustainability, Conservation, Renewable Energy, Climate Change
- Agricultural Sciences – Agronomy, Biotechnology, Food Security
- Education & Training – STEM Education, Educational Leadership, Curriculum Development
- Business & Economics – Risk Management, Financial Engineering, International Business
- Public Policy & Urban Development – Government Policy, Urban Planning, International Development
How to Apply?
- Deadline: 16 February 2025
- Email Applications to: sonia@sun.ac.za
To apply, Complete this Application form:
Ensure that you submit your complete application with all required documents. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
The Mike Brown Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity for postgraduate students committed to advancing South Africa’s economic and social progress. If you have academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, this scholarship can help you pursue your dream career in a high-demand field. Apply now and take a step towards a brighter future!
Check also: Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholarships 2025