Maize Trust Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on Maize Trust Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student passionate about agriculture and eager to contribute to the country’s food security and maize industry? The Maize Trust Bursary 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering financial assistance to deserving students pursuing postgraduate studies in agriculture-related fields. Established to support research, innovation, and capacity development within the maize industry, the Maize Trust aims to empower the next generation of agricultural leaders who will drive sustainability, productivity, and transformation in South Africa’s farming sector.
The Maize Trust Bursary Programme provides funding for master’s and doctoral students focusing on areas such as agricultural economics, agronomy, plant breeding, soil science, and related disciplines that contribute to the growth of the maize industry. Successful applicants receive financial support to cover tuition, research costs, and other study-related expenses, allowing them to focus fully on their academic and research goals.
By applying for the Maize Trust Bursary 2026/2027, students gain not only financial relief but also the opportunity to contribute to agricultural innovation and food security in South Africa.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading to learn more about the eligibility requirements, fields of study supported, application procedure, and closing date for the Maize Trust Bursary Programme 2026/2027.
About Maize Trust
The Maize Trust was established in 1998, following the closure of the Maize Board, with the mission of promoting and developing South Africa’s maize industry. The Trust focuses on ensuring continuous improvement, international competitiveness, and regional leadership within the maize value chain.
Through financial support, the Maize Trust funds research projects, market development initiatives, and information dissemination that benefit producers, traders, and consumers. The organisation plays a vital role in fostering collaboration between agricultural institutions, researchers, and industry stakeholders.
One of the Trust’s most impactful contributions is the Maize Trust Bursary Scheme, which empowers postgraduate students to drive innovation and sustainability in agriculture.
About Maize Trust Bursary Programme 2026/2027
Fields Covered
The Maize Trust Bursary Programme invites applications for the 2026 academic year from students pursuing Master’s (MSc) or Doctoral (PhD) research in disciplines relevant to the maize industry.
Eligible fields include:
- Agronomy
- Agricultural Economics
- Agricultural Engineering
- Agricultural Meteorology
- Biometry
- Food Sciences (relevant to the crop industry)
- Livestock Science
- Molecular Biology
- Pasture Science
- Plant Biochemistry
- Plant Breeding
- Plant Entomology
- Plant Nematology
- Plant Pathology
- Plant Physiology
- Soil Microbiology
- Soil Science
- Weed Science
These fields are carefully chosen to align with the Trust’s mission of advancing agricultural knowledge, improving crop yields, and supporting sustainable maize production in South Africa.
Bursary Coverage Value and Payment Structure
The Maize Trust Bursary provides generous financial assistance based on the student’s level of study:
- Master’s (MSc) students: Up to R99 750 per annum, for a maximum of 2 years
- Doctoral (PhD) students: Up to R131 250 per annum, for a maximum of 3 years
Funds are disbursed according to approved progress reports submitted by the student and their academic supervisor. The first payment is made in January 2026, followed by subsequent installments based on academic performance and research milestones.
Service Contract & Selection Process
Upon graduation, bursary recipients are required to work within South Africa’s maize industry for a period equal to the duration of funding received.
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for telephonic interviews, and successful candidates will be notified within 8 weeks after the closing date. If you have not heard back within this timeframe, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Eligibility Requirements for Maize Trust Bursary Application 2026/2027
To qualify for the Maize Trust Bursary, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must have completed Matric
- Must be studying or intend to study full-time towards a Master’s or PhD degree related to the maize industry
- Must be enrolled at a recognised South African tertiary institution
- Must not be receiving any other bursary funding, unless approved by the Maize Trust
- Must intend to conduct research on a topic approved by the Trust
- Must be willing to work in the South African maize industry after graduation
- Must have read and agreed to all bursary policies and conditions stated in the application form
- Must complete and sign the Legal Undertaking form (Section I)
How to Apply for Maize Trust Bursary 2026/2027
Applications must be submitted online via the official portal: Click here to access the Maize Trust Bursary Application portal for 2026
Applicants must upload the following supporting documents with their application (incomplete applications will not be considered):
- Certified copy of ID document or passport (not older than 3 months)
- Recent colour ID photo
- Comprehensive CV
- Proof of tertiary registration and fee statement (if available)
- Full academic record, including latest results (on official institution letterhead)
- Proposed research details, including working title, description, and Gantt chart
- Motivational letter outlining your academic abilities, financial need, and future career goals
Ensure that all documents are legible, up to date, and submitted before the deadline.
Closing Date for the Maize Trust Bursary Application 2026/2027
Closing Date: 1 October
Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted. Apply early to ensure your application is considered.
Contact Details of Maize Trust
For more information or queries regarding the Maize Trust Bursary, please contact the bursary administrators:
Administrator: Agri Manage Solutions
Contact Person: Marna Booyens
Email: marna@agrimange.co.za
