The SAAB Bursary Programme presents a golden opportunity for students pursuing higher education in Botany and related fields. Each year, the South African Association of Botanists (SAAB) awards bursaries to outstanding students from SADC countries who demonstrate academic excellence.
The SAAB Bursary Programme aims to support students in achieving their educational aspirations while contributing to the field of Botany.
SAAB Bursary Programme 2025 – Available Awards
The SAAB Bursary Programme offers two different bursaries based on the level of study. These include:
- Honours Bursary – SAAB provides three bursaries of R15 000 each for one year of study at the Honours level (NQF level 8/PGDip).
- Masters Bursary – Up to three MSc scholarships are awarded, each worth R50 000. The bursary is divided into two payments: R25 000 in the first year and R25 000 in the second year, subject to satisfactory academic progress.
Eligibility Criteria for SAAB Bursary Programme 2025
To qualify for the SAAB Bursary Programme, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements:
For Honours Bursary:
- Applicants must be graduates from SADC countries.
- They must have achieved an average grade of at least 70% or higher in their previous academic studies.
- They must be registered for a full-time Honours degree (NQF level 8/PGDip) in Botany or related fields at a South African university.
- Their academic supervisor must be a paid-up SAAB member.
- The bursary awardee will receive a one-year complimentary SAAB student membership.
For Masters Bursary:
- Applicants must have completed an Honours degree (or equivalent) in Botany or a related field.
- They must have achieved an average grade of at least 70% in their Honours degree.
- The applicant must be in their first year of full-time MSc studies at a South African institution.
- Their academic supervisor must be a paid-up SAAB member.
- The bursary recipient will receive a two-year complimentary SAAB student membership.
- To receive the second R25 000 installment in their second year, they must show satisfactory academic progress.
SAAB Bursary Application Deadlines
- Masters Bursary: The deadline for MSc bursary applications is 28 February 2025.
- Honours Bursary: The deadline for Honours bursary applications is 31 March 2025.
Selection and Notification Process
All submitted applications for the SAAB Bursary Programme will be thoroughly reviewed by the adjudicating committee. The final decision is based on academic excellence and completeness of the application.
- Masters Bursary applicants will be notified by mid-March 2025.
- Honours Bursary applicants will be notified by mid-April 2025.
The decision of the adjudicating committee is final, and no further correspondence will be entertained.
Why Apply for the SAAB Bursary Programme?
The SAAB Bursary Programme is an excellent opportunity for students passionate about Botany and related fields. By securing this bursary, students receive financial assistance that helps them focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress. Additionally, the programme fosters academic growth, professional networking, and career development in the field of Botany.
The inclusion of a complimentary SAAB student membership also allows students to engage with leading botanists and researchers in South Africa. This can significantly boost their academic and professional journey.
Key Takeaways of the SAAB Bursary Programme 2025
- Three Honours bursaries of R15 000 each for one year.
- Up to three Masters bursaries worth R50 000 (R25 000 per year for two years).
- Applicants must have a minimum 70% academic average.
- Must be studying full-time at a South African institution.
- The student’s supervisor must be a paid-up SAAB member.
- Bursary awardees receive a complimentary SAAB student membership.
- Strict application deadlines: 28 February 2025 (Masters) and 31 March 2025 (Honours).
- Selection is competitive, and decisions are final.
Check also: Knysna Municipality Bursary Programme 2025
The SAAB Bursary Programme is a remarkable initiative that supports the future generation of botanists and plant scientists. By offering financial assistance and access to an esteemed academic network, SAAB plays a crucial role in advancing Botany and related sciences in South Africa.
Aspiring students with a passion for plant sciences should seize this opportunity and submit their applications before the deadline to secure financial support for their academic journey. With SAAB’s commitment to excellence, the future of Botany and environmental science continues to thrive.