Title: Fueling Innovation in Food and Beverage: The FoodBev SETA Bursary
Introduction: The Food and Beverage Manufacturing Sector Education and Training Authority (FoodBev SETA) plays a crucial role in advancing skills development within the Food and Beverage Manufacturing Sector. With a commitment to promoting high-quality learning provision, improving access to knowledge and skills, and ensuring relevant qualifications are available, FoodBev SETA empowers individuals to excel in this sector. In this blog post, we explore the esteemed FoodBev SETA Bursary program, designed to support postgraduate students pursuing research and innovation in the food and beverages manufacturing value chain.
The FoodBev SETA: As one of the 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) in South Africa, FoodBev SETA is dedicated to promoting, facilitating, and incentivizing skills development within the Food and Beverage Manufacturing Sector. This vocational skills training organization ensures that the sector has access to high-quality learning opportunities, fostering growth and excellence in the industry.
Bursary Program Overview: FoodBev SETA invites public universities to apply on behalf of students for the Postgraduate Research and Innovation Bursary Program for the financial year. These bursaries are awarded to students pursuing a Doctorate (PhD) or Master’s degree related to the Food and Beverage Manufacturing value chain.
Scholarship Coverage and Value: The bursary provides financial support subject to the availability of funds and covers the following expenses:
- Master’s Students:
- Registration fees, tuition fees, research costs, and study materials, up to a maximum value of R120,000 for the entire duration of studies.
- Bursary recipients will also undertake coursework.
- PhD Students:
- Tuition fees and costs associated with the research undertaken, up to a maximum value of R150,000 for the entire duration of studies.
Bursary recipients are required to submit an annual progress report signed off by their supervisor.
Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for the FoodBev SETA Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- South African citizenship or permanent residency.
- Registration for a PhD or Master’s degree for the academic year.
- Enrollment in a recognized public university in South Africa.
- Master’s students must have their research topics endorsed by their supervisors, aligning with the food and beverages manufacturing value chain.
- PhD students must have an approved Research Proposal with clear timeframes and an estimated year of completion.
- Not receiving any other bursary funding (confirmation required from the University Bursary Office).
- Preference given to students from previously disadvantaged groups.
Application Process: To apply for the FoodBev SETA Bursary, follow these steps:
- Download and complete the FoodBev SETA Bursary Application Form available in PDF format.
- Indicate that you learned about the bursary through “https://uni24.co.za/” when prompted on the application form.
- Submit the completed application form and required supporting documents listed in the application guidelines to your University Bursary Office. Note that students should not apply directly to FoodBev SETA; universities will apply on their behalf.
Required Supporting Documents: Ensure you submit clear copies of the following supporting documents along with your application form:
- Certified copy of your ID document (not older than 6 months)
- Proof of registration for the academic year
- Approved research proposal (including research costs) for PhD students, with confirmation from the recognized tertiary institution
- Approved research proposal (including research costs) for Master’s students, with confirmation from the recognized tertiary institution and research topic endorsed by the supervisor
- University’s Tax Clearance Certificate
- Signed declaration of intent, progress reports, and results to FoodBev SETA officials (signed by the applicant and supervisor)
Closing Date and Contact Information: The closing date for the FoodBev SETA Bursary is 17th February. Applications received after this date will not be accepted. For any inquiries regarding this bursary program, please contact FoodBev SETA directly using the provided contact information, including Collin Mshayisa (Tel: 011 253 7322) and Mondi Makhubu (Tel: 011 253 7343), or via email at ResearchBursaries@FoodBev.co.za.
Conclusion: The FoodBev SETA Bursary provides aspiring researchers and innovators in the food and beverage industry with a valuable opportunity to advance their studies. By supporting postgraduate students in their pursuit of research and innovation in the food and beverages manufacturing value chain, this bursary program contributes to the growth and development of the sector. Don’t miss out on this chance to make a significant impact on the industry—apply for the FoodBev SETA Bursary today.
