Hortgro is inviting students to apply for their bursary programme for the 2025 academic year. This bursary aims to support the future of the agricultural sector by helping deciduous fruit growers produce, market, and sell high-quality produce. Hortgro requires trained, skilled, and passionate individuals, and one way they achieve this is through their annual bursary programme.
About the Bursary Provider – Hortgro
Hortgro’s history dates back to 1652 when Jan van Riebeeck planted the first apple seeds in the Cape of Good Hope. Today, Hortgro focuses on research, technology, production, transformation, markets, and communication within the deciduous fruit industry. The company’s primary goal is to guide and direct research to address both short-term and long-term needs within the industry. Hortgro’s members include the Dried Fruit Technical Services (DFTS), SA Stone Fruit Producers’ Association (SASPA), and SA Apple and Pear Producers’ Association (SAAPPA).
Fields Covered:
- Agri-Management
- Agricultural Biotechnology
- Agricultural Economics
- Agricultural Science
- Entomology
- Horticulture (Production/ Post-harvest)
- Marketing Specialist
- Microbiology
- Plant Pathology
- Project Management
- Soil and Water Science
More About the Hortgro Bursary Programme – Expectations, Renewal & Selection
Bursary recipients are expected to:
- Provide Hortgro with quarterly updates on their studies and general well-being.
- Submit results each semester.
- Maintain good behavior throughout their studies.
- Attend Hortgro functions.
The bursary award is renewable each year based on satisfactory academic performance. Recipients will have access to a mentor who will provide motivation and support throughout their studies. Shortlisted candidates will be presented to a committee for final selection.
Eligibility Requirements for the Hortgro Bursary
Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must have completed Matric OR be currently in Matric.
- Must be studying or intend on studying towards a qualification within one of the fields of study listed above in 2025.
- Must be studying or registered to study at a recognised tertiary institution in South Africa.
- Must meet the admission requirements for the chosen course of study.
How to Apply for the Hortgro Bursary
Applications must be submitted online at: Hortgro Bursary Application 2025
Applicants are encouraged to also download and read the Hortgro Bursary Brochure (.pdf)
Shortlisted applicants may need to submit clear copies of the following supporting documentation:
- ID document or both sides of your ID Card (certified copy).
- Matric certificate, if completed Matric (certified copy).
- Matric latest results, if currently in Matric (certified copy).
- Latest tertiary academic record, if at tertiary level (certified copy).
- Proof of tertiary registration (on tertiary letterhead).
- Estimated breakdown of study fees (tuition, books, and accommodation).
- Parents/guardians ID documents (certified copies).
- Parents/guardians proof of income (latest payslips if employed/affidavit if unemployed).
- Proof of any other financial assistance, bursaries, or loans being received (if applicable).
- An essay detailing your background, career plans, future aspirations in the agricultural environment, and why you deserve the bursary.
- 2 contactable references.
Closing Date for the Hortgro Bursary
Closing Date: 15 August 2024
(Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted – please apply before the closing date to ensure your application is considered.)
