Title: Nurturing Agricultural Excellence: Agbiz Centenary Bursary Programme
Introduction:
The Agbiz Centenary Bursary Programme offers a gateway to success for aspiring students in the fields of Agricultural Economics or Agribusiness Management. As an association of agribusinesses operating in South Africa and southern Africa, Agbiz is committed to positively influencing the development, transformation, and economic growth of the agricultural sector. This article delves into the Agbiz Centenary Bursary Programme, encompassing the company’s history, fields covered, eligibility criteria, application process, and contact information.
About the Agricultural Business Chamber (Agbiz):
Established in 1946 as the Co-operative Council, the organization represented the interests of agricultural co-operatives. Over the years, it evolved and underwent name changes, becoming the Agricultural Co-operative Business (ACB) in 1995 and later the Agricultural Business Chamber (ABC) in 2003. In 2012, it was relaunched as Agbiz. Today, Agbiz is an influential association of agribusinesses, dedicated to driving the development, transformation, and economic growth of South Africa’s agricultural sector.
About the Agbiz Centenary Bursary Programme:
The Agbiz Centenary Bursary Programme aims to support students pursuing Master’s or PhD degrees in Agricultural Economics or Agribusiness Management-related fields for the 2023 academic year.
Fields Covered:
- Agricultural Economics
- Agribusiness Management
Coverage Value and Selection:
The bursary is valued at R41,000 per academic year, and successful applicants must reapply annually, subject to satisfactory academic performance. Payments will be made to the student’s university account in February 2023. The selection of bursary recipients will be based on academic merit, the relevance of their research to agribusiness, and the strength of their motivation and purpose.
Eligibility Requirements:
To be considered for the Agbiz Centenary Bursary, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- South African citizenship
- Completion of a relevant undergraduate degree or in the final year of obtaining one
- Registration or qualification for registration for a postgraduate (Master’s or PhD) degree in Agricultural Economics or Agribusiness Management-related fields in 2023
- Registration or qualification for registration at a recognized and accredited university in South Africa
- Minimum 60% result for all major subjects
Application Process:
Applicants are required to download and complete the Agbiz Centenary Bursary Application Form for 2023. Before applying, it is essential to read and agree to the Agbiz Centenary Bursary T&C’s. When completing the application form, indicate “www.zabursaries.co.za” as the source of information.
Supporting Documentation:
Along with the completed application form, applicants must submit the following compulsory supporting documents:
- Certified copy of ID document or proof of South African citizenship
- Full academic record to date of undergraduate degree (on institution’s letterhead)
- Proof of registration for 2023 or a letter from the Department Head confirming qualification for admission (on institution’s letterhead)
- Recommendation letter from academic supervisor or Head of the Department (maximum 1 page)
- Motivational letter outlining why the applicant should be awarded the bursary and how they intend to utilize it (maximum 1 page)
- Declaration of any other bursary funding or support received, if applicable
Submission:
Applications can be submitted via email to admin@agbiz.co.za, with “Agbiz Centenary Bursary Application 2023” in the subject line, or by post to the address provided.
Closing Date:
The closing date for the Agbiz Centenary Bursary is December 6, 2022. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to apply before the deadline.
Contact Information:
For any queries related to the bursary programme, applicants can contact Liezl Esterhuizen at Agbiz via telephone at 012 807 6686 or email at admin@agbiz.co.za.
Conclusion:
The Agbiz Centenary Bursary Programme stands as a testament to Agbiz’s commitment to nurturing excellence in the agricultural sector. By providing financial support to students pursuing advanced degrees in Agricultural Economics or Agribusiness Management, Agbiz aims to contribute to the growth and transformation of South Africa’s agricultural landscape. If you meet the eligibility criteria, seize this opportunity to apply for the Agbiz Centenary Bursary and pave the way to a prosperous future in the agricultural industry.
