Are you a South African postgraduate student passionate about research in the small grains industry? If so, the Winter Cereal Trust Bursary might be the perfect opportunity for you.

This bursary scheme supports deserving students pursuing Masters and Doctoral degrees in fields relevant to the small grains sector, helping them achieve their academic goals and contribute to the field’s advancement.

About the Winter Cereal Trust Bursary

Established in 2006, the WCT Bursary hopes to close the gap between talent and opportunity in the small grains industry, which includes wheat, barley, oats, and durum.

By providing financial assistance, the WCT empowers students to focus on their studies and research, ultimately contributing to a skilled and knowledgeable workforce within the sector.

The bursary covers tuition fees, study materials, and living expenses, offering valuable support throughout your academic journey.

Additionally, you’ll be paired with a mentor, a distinguished expert in the field, who will provide you with guidance and ensure your professional development.

Winter Cereal Trust Bursary Application Form

Applications for the WCT Bursary are submitted electronically through the Winter Cereal Trust website.

The online application form is straightforward and requires you to provide your personal details, academic qualifications, research proposal, and supporting documents.

Ensure you carefully review the selection criteria and tailor your application accordingly.

Here are the main documents you’ll need to have ready for submission:

  1. Certified copies of your academic transcripts and certificates
  2. A detailed research proposal outlining your project, objectives, and methodology
  3. Two academic reference letters
  4. Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency

You can have your application submitted in one of any of the following ways:

1. Email[email protected] and [email protected]

2. Post:

Winter Cereal Trust

PO Box 7088

Centurion

0046.

3. Delivery:

Block C

Agri-hub Office Park

477 Witherite Road

The Willows

Pretoria

0046.

Applications that are incomplete or do not meet the eligibility criteria will be disqualified. Submit your application well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute hurdles.

The Winter Cereal Trust Bursary Requirements

To be eligible for the Winter Cereal Trust Bursary, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
  2. Be registered for a Masters or Doctoral degree in a field related to the small grains industry, such as plant breeding, agronomy, soil science, food science, or agricultural economics
  3. Demonstrate academic excellence with a strong track record
  4. Submit a well-developed research proposal aligned with the WCT’s objectives
  5. Be committed to a career in the small grains industry upon graduation

The WCT prioritizes applications from previously disadvantaged students and encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.

The Winter Cereal Trust Bursary Closing Date

The application window for the WCT Bursary usually opens in June/July of each year.

It’s important to mark your calendar and submit your application before the closing date, which always falls in August/September.

The exact dates are announced annually on the WCT website and through their communication channels.

For inquiries about the WCT Bursary, please contact the Winter Cereal Trust at 012 007 1200 or email them at [email protected].