The Citrus Academy Bursary is a golden opportunity for students passionate about pursuing a career in the citrus industry. With a focus on developing skilled professionals within Southern Africa’s citrus sector, this bursary is open to students from South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Swaziland. Below, we provide a detailed guide on how to apply for the Citrus Academy Bursary for the 2025 academic year.
About the Bursary Provider – Citrus Academy
Founded in 2005 by the Citrus Growers’ Association (CGA) of Southern Africa, the Citrus Academy is a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing the challenges within the citrus industry. These challenges include scarce and critical skills, quality of skills delivery, black economic empowerment, and employment equity. The Academy plays a crucial role in ensuring the sustainability and growth of the citrus industry by investing in human resource development.
In 2006, the Citrus Academy established the Citrus Academy Bursary Fund, which has since grown to become the largest private bursary fund in primary agriculture and one of the most significant in the primary sector.
About the Citrus Academy Bursary Programme – Fields Covered
The Citrus Academy Bursary is available to students pursuing qualifications related to citrus production or research. The bursary aims to support students who are committed to making a positive impact within the citrus industry.
Expenses Covered & Obligations
The bursary provides coverage for various expenses, including tuition fees, prescribed books, stationery, accommodation, meals, and research costs (for postgraduate students). It is important to note that the bursary offers partial funding and does not cover all expenses.
Recipients of the bursary are required to sign a Bursary Agreement with the Citrus Academy. They must adhere to certain academic standards and commit to the Citrus Academy Code of Conduct. After completing their studies, bursary recipients are expected to work within the citrus industry for a period equal to the duration of the bursary funding received.
Eligibility Requirements for the Citrus Academy Bursary
To qualify for the Citrus Academy Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of South Africa, Zimbabwe, or Swaziland.
- Have completed Matric.
- Be enrolled in full-time or part-time studies in a field related to citrus production or research.
- Be entering at least the second year of study in 2025.
- Be studying at a recognized and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa.
- Have a strong interest in pursuing a career in the citrus industry.
- Meet all the criteria outlined in the Citrus Academy Bursary Agreement.
Candidates are selected based on several factors, including previously disadvantaged status, academic performance, financial need, relevance to the citrus industry, gender (preference given to female students), and disability (students with disabilities are encouraged to apply).
How to Apply for the Citrus Academy Bursary
Applications for the Citrus Academy Bursary must be submitted online. Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the Citrus Academy Bursary Application 2025: Complete the application form online.
Required Supporting Documents:
- Certified copy of your ID document (or passport if you are a citizen of Zimbabwe or Swaziland).
- Certified copy of your secondary education results.
- Certified copy of your most recent tertiary academic record.
- Motivational essay (maximum 500 words) detailing your reasons for studying further, your background in the citrus industry, and how you plan to contribute to the citrus sector after completing your studies.
- Details of your proposed research project (for postgraduate students).
Selection Process
Once applications close, they are scored using a weighted system and ranked. Postgraduate applications are further assessed by citrus researchers and academics. Shortlisted candidates, including current bursary recipients, will be approved for funding. Successful candidates will be notified between mid-December 2024 and mid-January 2025. If you do not receive feedback by then, consider your application unsuccessful.
Closing Date for the Citrus Academy Bursary
The application deadline is 15 September 2024. Late applications will not be considered, so ensure you submit your application well before the closing date.
Contact the Bursary Provider
For any questions regarding the bursary programme, you can contact the Citrus Academy directly at:
- Tel: 031 765 3410 / 031 765 3412 / 086 546 7808
- Email: [email protected]
Please consult the Citrus Academy Bursary FAQs before submitting any inquiries.
This comprehensive guide should help you navigate the application process for the Citrus Academy Bursary. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about contributing to the citrus industry, don’t miss this opportunity to further your studies and career.