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The Maize Trust Bursary Programme 2026 is now open for applications. Postgraduate students pursuing Masters and Doctoral studies relevant to the maize industry can apply for funding worth up to R131,250 per year.
Introduction: Investing in the Future of South African Agriculture
Agriculture remains one of the cornerstones of South Africa’s economy, and maize, in particular, plays a central role. It is the country’s most widely grown field crop, a staple food for millions, and an essential ingredient for the livestock feed industry. Yet, the sustainability of this sector depends on continuous innovation, cutting-edge research, and a new generation of skilled professionals.
Recognising this need, the Maize Trust has once again opened applications for the 2026 Bursary Programme. Designed specifically for postgraduate students (Masters and Doctoral), this bursary offers more than just financial relief—it serves as an entry point into South Africa’s maize industry, supporting young academics who will lead the sector into the future.
If you are passionate about research, agriculture, and contributing to food security, this bursary could be your pathway to a meaningful career.
About the Maize Trust: Strengthening South Africa’s Maize Industry
The Maize Trust was established in August 1998 following the closure of the Maize Board. Its primary mission is to advance and strengthen the maize industry while ensuring that South Africa remains a regional leader and an international competitor in maize production.
The Core Functions of the Trust
- Funding Research – Supporting production and market-related studies that directly benefit farmers and industry players.
- Market Information – Ensuring that transparent, reliable data is disseminated to stakeholders across the value chain.
- Transformation Projects – Uplifting previously disadvantaged individuals through bursaries, training, and farmer development initiatives.
By offering bursaries, the Trust not only funds education but also invests in the long-term transformation and competitiveness of the industry.
Bursary Scope and Value: What Does the Maize Trust Offer?
The Maize Trust Bursary Programme 2026 provides generous funding packages tailored to different levels of postgraduate study:
- Masters by Dissertation: R99,750 per annum (funded for up to 2 years)
- Doctoral Research: R131,250 per annum (funded for up to 3 years)
Conditions of Funding
- Funding is renewed annually, subject to the submission of satisfactory progress reports by both the student and their supervisor.
- Students must focus their research on topics relevant to the maize industry.
- Beneficiaries are expected to commit to working in the maize sector in South Africa for a period equal to the bursary duration.
This structure ensures that the bursary not only provides financial aid but also creates a pipeline of skilled researchers and professionals dedicated to the future of the maize industry.
Eligibility Requirements: Who Can Apply?
To be considered for the bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Useful Links:
- Youth Opportunities
- Online courses
- Learnerships Programme
- Skills Training Programme
- Funding Bursaries
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
- Level of Study: Must be admitted for full-time Masters (by dissertation) or Doctoral studies at a recognised South African university.
- Field of Study: The chosen research must be relevant to the maize industry.
- Proposal Approval: The dissertation or thesis proposal must receive approval from the Maize Trust.
- Exclusive Funding: Applicants may not receive additional funding from other sources without written approval from the Trust.
- Commitment: A pledge to work in the South African maize industry for the same duration as the bursary support.
These requirements highlight the bursary’s focus: developing experts who are committed to uplifting South Africa’s maize sector.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Applicants are expected to compile and submit a full application package. Here’s what you need to prepare:
Required Documents
- Completed Application Form
- Certified Copy of South African ID/Passport
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Latest Academic Transcript/Record
- Proof of Registration and Fee Statement (if available)
How to Apply
Applications for the Maize Trust Bursary 2026 must be submitted online through the official portal:
👉 Apply here for the Maize Trust Bursary 2026
📌 Closing Date: 1 October 2025
Applicants are advised not to delay. Early preparation ensures that all documents are correctly compiled and avoids last-minute technical errors.
Why This Bursary Matters: Building Food Security and Innovation
South Africa’s maize industry is not just about farming—it’s about sustainability, economics, and national food security.
1. Feeding a Nation
Maize is the staple food for millions of South Africans. Supporting postgraduate research means strengthening systems that safeguard food supply.
2. Driving Agricultural Transformation
The bursary helps address inequalities by offering opportunities to students who can later contribute to inclusive growth and development.
3. Encouraging Innovation
From drought-resistant seed varieties to sustainable farming methods, new research is vital to ensure the industry adapts to challenges such as climate change and global competition.
4. Career Pathways
Recipients of the Maize Trust bursary often secure positions as:
- Agricultural researchers
- University lecturers
- Policy advisors
- Industry consultants
- Agribusiness leaders
The Bigger Picture: Agriculture as a Career Path
For many students, agriculture may not initially appear as glamorous as careers in technology or finance. However, with the growing importance of food security and climate resilience, careers in agriculture—especially research-based ones—are becoming increasingly significant.
A bursary like this not only eases the financial burden of postgraduate study but also places students at the forefront of innovation in one of South Africa’s most critical sectors.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Align Your Research Proposal
Ensure your proposed topic directly connects to the maize industry. Consider areas such as crop production, market efficiency, biotechnology, or climate resilience. - Strong Academic Record
Demonstrate consistency and highlight achievements that show you are capable of handling advanced research. - Quality CV
Showcase relevant academic and extracurricular activities, including internships, projects, or community work. - Professional Presentation
Submit documents in a neat and professional format. Spelling and formatting errors can undermine strong applications. - Supervisor Support
Ensure your academic supervisor endorses your application and understands the Maize Trust requirements for progress reporting.
Voices From the Field: Past Beneficiaries’ Impact
While each year brings a new group of recipients, the impact of past bursary holders has been profound. Many have gone on to:
- Develop innovative crop production methods.
- Contribute to policy discussions on food security.
- Mentor new entrants into agricultural research.
- Partner with farming communities to implement research findings.
These success stories highlight how a single bursary can create ripples of positive change across the entire agricultural sector.
Key Dates to Remember
- Applications Open: Already available online.
- Closing Date: 1 October 2025.
- Funding Period: Masters (up to 2 years), Doctoral (up to 3 years).
- Progress Reviews: Annual reviews based on reports from both the student and supervisor.
Marking these dates ensures you remain on track and do not miss the opportunity.
Conclusion: Shaping the Future of South Africa’s Maize Industry
The Maize Trust Bursary Programme 2026 is more than just financial support—it is a stepping stone into a sector that feeds the nation, drives the economy, and offers solutions to global challenges such as climate change and food insecurity.
By funding Masters and Doctoral research, the Trust is cultivating leaders and innovators who will ensure that the South African maize industry continues to thrive both locally and internationally.
If you are a postgraduate student committed to research and passionate about agriculture, this is your chance to make an impact. Apply before 1 October 2025 and take the next step towards a career that matters.
👉 Apply now via the Maize Trust official bursary portal
