Students who are interested in minerals and mining sector can consider about taking part in MQA bursary that is generally available on a yearly basis. A lot of students with promising and potential abilities (and performance) are unfortunate enough not to be able to continue their education to a higher level and MQA (or Mining Qualifications Authority) is determined to change such situation.
About the Program
The MQA bursary is designed and created to increase the numbers of potential students taking careers within the mining industry. As the main principle of the program, the bursary continues to help students by offering and providing them with the opportunity to study at HET or Higher Education and Training.
The bursary is given to students that have registered and enrolled with TVET (Technical Vocational Education and Training) colleges, universities of technologies, and universities. The bursary itself would cover registration and tuition fees, books, toolkit allowance, stationery, and out of residence living cost or residence fees. The bursary is given per semester.
The Requirements
Basically, those who are eligible should meet the minimum standards or criteria. It includes financial assistance record and proof along with the strong (and good) academic record. Student performance will also serve as the base of the award. The program will continue within every year in which the candidates remain enrolled but they are annually re-assessed by the bursary committee.
MQA bursary basically supports these core mining subjects that cover Mine Survey, Mining Engineering, and Geology. Be advised that disabled applicants and female candidates would be given special considerations. Applicants should also understand that this bursary programs has a service obligations. It means that the successful candidates have the obligations to secure employment with South African minerals and mining sector, spending the same amount of year like the given bursary.
Any candidates who need assistance or questions regarding the applications within specific institutions can contact these following people. You need to choose which institution to go to so you can contact the right person.
How to Apply
Keep in mind that different subjects and educational institutions have their own application method and arrangement manner. They may set different requirements as well as deadlines. The best way for you is to carefully choose the mining subject and the institution. Afterwards, you can focus on the details.
The Contact People
· Mr. Diiteleni Tshisevhe at DiiteleniT@mqa.org.za or 011 547 5705 for Capricorn TVET College, Vhembe TVET College, University of Venda, Mopani TVET College, University of Limpopo,and Sekhukhune TVET College
· Mr. Felicitus Lebetha at FelicitusL@mqa.org.za or 011 547 2672 for Nkangala TVET College and University of Witwatersrands
· Mr.Tebogo Thankge at TebogoT@mqa.org.za or 011547 2755 for Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of Fort Hare, Buffalo City TVET College, North West University, University of Cape Town, King Dalindyebo TVET College, University of the Western Cape, Nelson Mandela University, and Stellenbosch University.
· Ms. Moloko Phofa at MolokoP@mqa.org.za or 011 547 2668 for UNISA (University of South Africa), University of Pretoria, and TUT (Tshwane University of Technology).
For detailed information, go to this link to see all contact people and learn more about MQA bursary program.