Barry Bredenkamp Bursary 2026 Requirements & Application

Gifted students with a passion for academic achievement often face financial problems that can limit their educational opportunities.

Seeing this challenge, the Barry Bredenkamp Bursary hopes to help out by providing financial support to exceptional students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies at accredited institutions in South Africa.

About the Barry Bredenkamp Bursary

This bursary is offered by the Centre for Applied Research and Innovation in the Built Environment (CARINBE) at the University of Johannesburg. 

It is in partnership with the South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), which promotes innovation and energy research in South Africa.

Fields of Study Funded

1. Master’s studies in PowerGrid Digitalisation research topics
2. PhD studies in the same area, including:
   • E-mobility technologies and adaptation
   • EV charging infrastructure: location and cost
   • Coordinated voltage regulator and smart inverter settings for high DER penetration
   • Cybersecurity for distributed energy resources
   • Security surveillance using power system digital twins

Benefits for Recipients

• R100 000 funding for Master’s students
• R150 000 funding for PhD candidates
• Covers academic and research activities, as well as student welfare
• Potential internship or vacation work opportunities through SANEDI for industry exposure

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be enrolled at UJ in the Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment or the Faculty of Science
• Must be pursuing a Master’s or PhD in one of the listed research themes
• Preference given to students from historically underprivileged and designated groups, per UJ and SANEDI’s employment equity policies

How to Apply

• Applications are submitted via the CARINBE bursary application form hosted on the UJ/CARINBE platform
• Include all required documents (see next section) and follow the submission instructions carefully

Required Documents

Ensure your submission includes:

1. Certified copy of your South African ID or passport
2. Copies of your highest qualification certificate (or SAQA certificate if obtained abroad)
3. Research proposal
4. Personal statement
5. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
6. Sample written work (preferably within your research field)
7. Two referees—enter their names and emails; they must send recommendation letters directly to the CARINBE postgraduate administrator ([email protected]) 

Closing Date

The application deadline typically falls on 31 August at 23:59 each year. 

For the 2025/2026 cycle, that date would likely apply. Submit your application before the deadline to be considered.

Contact Details

For enquiries, contact CARINBE at UJ:

• Telephone: 011 559 6417
• Email: [email protected]