Title: Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) Bursary Program: Empowering Mining and Minerals Sector Skills Development
Introduction: The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA), a Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) established under the Mine Health and Safety Act, is at the forefront of driving transformation and skills development in the South African mining and minerals sector. Through their bursary program, the MQA is providing opportunities for 700 unemployed learners to pursue studies at public universities, universities of technology, and TVET colleges in various fields related to the industry. This blog post explores the MQA Bursary program, including the covered fields, selection process, eligibility requirements, application procedure, and contact details.
The MQA: Fostering Skills Development in Mining and Minerals: As a SETA, the MQA is dedicated to ensuring that the mining and minerals sector in South Africa possesses the necessary skills to enhance employment equity, health and safety, and productivity standards. Established under the Mine Health and Safety Act, the MQA plays a pivotal role in driving transformation and equipping the industry with a skilled workforce. By facilitating skills development programs, the MQA contributes to the growth and sustainability of the mining and minerals sector.
MQA Bursary Program: Fields Covered: The MQA is inviting students to apply for their bursary program for the 2023 academic year. The program provides bursaries for studies in various fields related to the mining and minerals sector. These fields include Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Health and Management, Geology, Industrial Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Mining Engineering, Occupational Health and Safety, and many more. The MQA recognizes the importance of these disciplines in advancing the industry and encourages learners to pursue careers in these areas.
Coverage Value and Selection Process: Successful bursary recipients under the MQA program will receive coverage for tuition fees, book allowance, accommodation allowance, and a meal allowance. The MQA aims to announce the outcomes of the selection process by 15 December 2022. Applicants who do not receive any communication by this date should consider their applications unsuccessful. The MQA Bursary program is committed to transparency and timely communication with applicants.
Eligibility Requirements for the MQA Bursary:
To be considered for the MQA Bursary, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- South African citizenship
- Unemployed status
- Currently in Matric or have completed Matric
- Intending to pursue an undergraduate qualification in one of the specified fields of study (postgraduate studies are not funded)
- Planning to study at a public university, university of technology, or TVET college in South Africa
Preference will be given to female candidates, students from rural communities, applicants who have applied to study at local tertiary institutions, individuals with financial need (household income below R600,000 per year), those with a strong academic record, and historically disadvantaged individuals.
Application Process for the MQA Bursary:
To apply for the MQA Bursary, follow these steps:
- Download and complete the MQA Bursary Application Form 2023 in a fillable PDF format.
- Submit clear copies of the required supporting documentation, including identification documents, academic records, proof of acceptance at a tertiary institution, Matric certificate, tertiary academic record, and proof of household income.
- Email the completed application form and supporting documents to bursaries@mqa.org.za. Include your full name and surname, as well as your ID number, in the email subject line.
Important Notes and Closing Date:
Ensure that all information provided in the application form is accurate and truthful, as false information or documents will result in disqualification. The closing date for the MQA Bursary is 1 September 2022. Late applications will not be accepted, so applicants are encouraged to apply before the closing date to ensure consideration.
Contact Information:
For any queries related to the MQA Bursary program, applicants can reach out to their nearest MQA regional office. Contact details for each office are as follows:
- Eastern Cape office: Tel: 047 505 1047, Address: King Sabata Dalindyebo TVET College, R61 Queenstown Road, Cicira Village, Mthatha, 5099.
- Free State office: Tel: 087 095 0266, Address: Goldfields TVET College, 14107 Ndaki Road, Tosa Campus, Thabong, 9463.
- Gauteng office: Tel: 011 547 2600, Address: MQA Head Office 7 Anerley Road, Block C, Parktown, 2193.
- Limpopo office: Tel: 087 095 0267, Address: Sekhukhune TVET College, CN Phatudi Campus, Stand No. 2659, Praktiseer.
- Mpumalanga office: Tel: 013 696 8120 / 013 696 2121, Address: Nkangala TVET College, Mpondozankomo Campus, 1 Moses Kotane Drive, Ferrobank, Emalahleni, 1045.
- North West office: Tel: 014 555 8860, Address: Old Shopping Complex, 53 Karee Street, Mooinooi, 0325.
- Northern Cape office: Tel: 053 723 0100, Address: Northern Cape Rural TVET College, Kathu Campus, Hans Coetzee Drive, Kathu, 8446.
Conclusion:
The MQA Bursary program offers an excellent opportunity for unemployed learners to pursue their studies in fields critical to the mining and minerals sector. By investing in skills development and providing financial support, the MQA aims to create a diverse and skilled workforce that contributes to the industry’s growth and transformation. If you meet the eligibility criteria, submit your application before the closing date and seize the chance to be a part of this valuable program. For further information and assistance, contact the MQA regional office nearest to you.
