Imerys Refractory Bursary Requirements and Online Application

Imerys Refractory Minerals South Africa is part of the global Imerys Group, a world leader in mineral-based specialty solutions.

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The South African operations are heavily involved in mining and processing industrial minerals, such as andalusite, for the refractory, ceramics, and construction industries.

To ensure a sustainable supply of qualified professionals for the mining sector, Imerys offers an annual bursary programme.

The bursary targets both the children of employees and students residing in the local communities around its operations.

This commitment helps develop crucial skills in technical, engineering, and core mining fields.

Fields of Study Covered by the Imerys Refractory Bursary 

The Imerys Bursary is primarily aimed at qualifications aligned with the critical needs of the mining and refractory minerals industry.

  1. Core Technical and Mining Disciplines:
    • Chemistry
    • Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Mining, Metallurgical)
    • Environmental Science
    • Geology
    • Health & Safety
    • Production
    • Metallurgy
  2. Additional Mining-Aligned Fields:
    • Accounting
    • Human Resources
    • Logistics
    • Supply Chain Management

Eligibility Requirements for the Imerys Bursary

Applicants must meet several key criteria, with preference given to local community members and employees’ dependents.

  1. You must be a South African citizen.
  2. You must be currently in Matric or have successfully completed your Matric certificate.
  3. You must be studying or intending to study towards a Degree or Diploma in one of the approved fields of study.
  4. You must be registered or provisionally accepted to study at a recognised South African University or TVET College for the 2026 academic year.
  5. Geographical Preference: You must either be an employee of Imerys Refractory Minerals South Africa, a child or dependant of an employee, OR reside in the community surrounding the company’s operations (e.g., Thabazimbi, Skierlik, Smashblock, Northam in Limpopo, and Mashishini/Lydenburg in Mpumalanga).
  6. Applicants must demonstrate an acceptable academic record. Strong performance in relevant subjects like Mathematics and Science is preferred for technical fields.
  7. You must have a genuine interest in pursuing a career within the mining industry.

Application Process for the Imerys Refractory Bursary

The application process is typically handled through email or hand delivery to the relevant mine site. 

You must submit a comprehensive set of documents.

  1. Collect and Certify Documents: Gather all the required supporting documents. Ensure that all copies are certified and are not older than three months.
  2. Obtain Application Form (if available): If you are an employee or a community member, you may collect a copy of the Skills Development Application Form from the site’s HR representative or the Skills Development Committee.
  3. Compile Submission Documents: The compulsory documents required for submission include:
    • A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
    • A Motivational Letter supporting your application.
    • A certified copy of your South African ID document.
    • Your Matric Certificate (or latest academic record if already in tertiary study).
    • Proof of application or acceptance letter for the 2026 academic year at your chosen institution.
    • A fee statement or fee estimate for the 2026 academic year from your institution.
    • Certified Proof of Residence to confirm community status, if applicable.
  4. Submit via Email: Non-employees usually apply by sending clear copies of all required documentation via a single email. The company’s official recruitment email address is used for this purpose.
  5. Use the Correct Subject Line: Ensure the email subject line clearly states your intention, for example: Imerys Refractory Bursary Application – [Your Full Name].
  6. Submit via Hand Delivery: Alternatively, applicants residing near the Limpopo operations may hand-deliver their application to the Rhino Mine Security gate.

Imerys Refractory Bursary Contact Details

Enquiries for the Imerys Refractory Minerals Bursary should be directed to the company’s Human Resources or Skills Development Department.

Imerys Refractory Bursary Closing Date

The closing date for the Imerys Refractory Minerals Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year was 29 November 2026.

There are no 2026 dates out yet.

FAQs

1. Is the Imerys Refractory Bursary currently open for 2026 applications? +
There are no 2026 dates out yet.
2. Must I be studying a core engineering or mining qualification? +
While core mining and technical fields like Engineering, Geology, and Metallurgy are prioritised, the bursary also considers students studying aligned fields like Accounting, Human Resources, and Logistics.
3. Do I need to live in a specific area to qualify? +
Yes, geographical preference is a major factor. You must either be an employee/dependent or reside in the local communities around the Imerys operations, such as Thabazimbi, Northam, or Lydenburg.
4. Does the bursary cover studies at TVET colleges? +
Yes. The bursary supports students pursuing both university Degrees and TVET College Diplomas in the specified fields of study.
5. What is the preferred method for non-employees to apply? +
Non-employees are advised to submit all required certified documents via email to the official recruitment address, using the correct subject line format. Hand delivery to the mine gate is also an option for some local applicants.
6. What happens if I fail to submit my motivational letter? +
The application is considered incomplete if any of the compulsory documents are missing. This will likely lead to automatic disqualification of your application.
7. Is there a work-back obligation after completing my studies? +
The company’s policy states that community members and dependents may be required to complete experiential learning or work back in service for the company at their discretion.
8. What should be included in the email subject line? +
The subject line must include the phrase “Imerys Refractory Bursary Application” followed by your full name. This helps the HR department correctly categorise your submission.
9. Do I need an acceptance letter before applying for the bursary? +
Yes, you must include either a final acceptance letter or proof of application/provisional acceptance for your 2026 academic course from your tertiary institution.
10. What is the latest date my documents can be certified? +
All certified copies of documents, such as your ID and academic records, must be dated not older than three months from the date of your bursary application submission.

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