MIT Bursary Application for 2026/2027

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Meat Industry Trust (MIT) Bursary Application for 2026/2027

Detailed guide on Meat Industry Trust (MIT) Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student passionate about agriculture, animal science, food technology, veterinary studies, or the meat processing industry? The Meat Industry Trust (MIT) Bursary Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering financial support to deserving students who wish to pursue studies that contribute to the growth and sustainability of South Africa’s meat and livestock sector. As an organisation dedicated to developing skills within the meat industry, the Meat Industry Trust invests in education to build a skilled workforce that will strengthen food security, improve industry standards, and drive economic development.

The MIT Bursary provides comprehensive financial assistance, which may include tuition fees, prescribed study materials, accommodation, and in some cases, a living allowance. Beyond financial support, beneficiaries may also gain access to mentorship, industry exposure, and practical training opportunities that prepare them for real-world challenges within the meat and agricultural sectors. This bursary is ideal for academically strong students who show a clear interest in building a career in livestock production, meat processing, food safety, and related fields.

By applying for the Meat Industry Trust Bursary 2026/2027, students not only reduce their financial burden but also position themselves for meaningful and sustainable careers in one of South Africa’s most vital industries.

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 find out more about the eligibility requirements, fields of study covered, application process, and closing date for the MIT Bursary Programme 2026/2027.

About Meat Industry Trust (MIT)

The Meat Industry Trust (MIT) is a discretionary trust established in 1996 with the objective of supporting and funding initiatives that promote the growth and sustainability of South Africa’s red meat industry. Its focus is on research, development, and human capital advancement within the sector.

The MIT bursary programme is administered by the Bursary Working Committee (BWC), a team made up of industry experts and representatives from the research fraternity who possess strong knowledge of tertiary education institutions and the needs of the red meat industry. This ensures that bursary funding is awarded to projects that have both academic excellence and practical industry relevance.

About the MIT Bursary Programme 2026/2027
Fields of Study Covered

The Meat Industry Trust is inviting postgraduate students to apply for funding for the 2026 academic year. The bursary supports Master’s and Doctorate degrees focused on research related to red meat species, including:

  • Cattle
  • Sheep
  • Goats

Bursaries are awarded for research projects in one or more of the following fields:

  • Consumer behaviour, Economics & Marketing
  • Environment, Climate Change & Carbon Footprint
  • Genetics, Genomics & Breeding
  • Health, Disease Control, Pharmacology, Toxicology, Bio-security & Animal Welfare
  • Hygiene, Product Safety, Quality & Food Safety
  • Livestock Nutrition
  • Meat Science & Nutritional Value
  • Physiology, Growth & Reproduction
  • Production Systems, Efficiency & Management
  • Rangeland, Pasture, Forages & Water
  • Socio-economic Aspects of the Red Meat Industry
  • Transition Agriculture in Livestock Production
  • Waste Management & Utilisation

These research areas are carefully selected to strengthen the sustainability, efficiency, and competitiveness of South Africa’s red meat industry.

Purpose of the Meat Industry Trust Bursary

The main objective of the MIT bursary is to scientifically enhance the South African red meat industry through research that improves:

  • Production systems
  • Manufacturing and processing methods
  • Storage and marketing of red meat products
  • Livestock health and welfare
  • Environmental sustainability
  • Skills development and human capital

The bursary is awarded based on three key criteria:

  1. The applicant’s academic performance
  2. The scientific quality of the research proposal
  3. The potential contribution of the research and skills gained to the South African red meat industry
Bursary Value, Payment Structure & Renewal

The MIT bursary offers funding of R60 000 per annum, paid directly to the student’s tertiary institution in two instalments:

  • The first instalment is paid after proof of registration and acceptance is received.
  • The second instalment is paid after the MIT receives a progress report from the student’s supervisor confirming satisfactory academic progress.

Total funding provided:

  • Master’s Degree: R120 000 over 2 consecutive years
  • Doctorate Degree: R180 000 over 3 consecutive years
Renewal Conditions
  • The bursary is renewed annually based on:
    • Satisfactory academic performance
    • Proof of re-registration at the institution

Students are required to submit:

  • Annual progress reports
  • A final report upon completion of their studies

The Bursary Working Committee (BWC) is responsible for selecting and notifying successful candidates.

Eligibility Requirements for MIT Bursary Application 2026/2027

Applicants must meet all of the following minimum requirements:

  • Must be a South African citizen
  • Must qualify to register for a Master’s or Doctorate degree
  • Must intend to study full-time in 2026
  • Research must relate to one or more of the approved fields listed above
  • Must study at a recognised and accredited South African tertiary institution
  • Must not be employed
  • Must agree to all bursary terms and conditions
Academic Requirements

For Master’s applicants:

  • Must have completed:
    • A BSc Honours or BSc (Agric) registered with SAQA, or
    • An equivalent qualification assessed by SACNASP or the SAVC and approved by SAQA

For Doctorate applicants:

  • Must have completed:
    • A Master’s degree registered with SAQA, or
    • An equivalent qualification assessed by SACNASP or the SAVC and approved by SAQA

Applicants who already receive other bursaries may apply, but must declare:

  • All bursaries applied for or awarded
  • Any conditions that may conflict with the MIT bursary
How to Apply for MIT Bursary Application for 2026/2027

Follow these steps to apply:

Step 1: Download the Application Form

Download and complete the Meat Industry Trust (MIT) Bursary Application Form 2026 (.docx).
Save the completed form in .pdf or .docx format.

Step 2: Apply Online

Submit your application online via the official MIT bursary application platform.

Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents

Upload clear certified copies of the following documents:

  • Completed application form
  • South African ID document
  • All completed tertiary qualifications
  • Full academic records for each qualification (on university letterhead)
  • Proof of registration (if available)

Note: Incomplete applications or missing documents may result in disqualification.

Closing Date for MIT Bursary Application for 2026/2027

The closing date for applications is: 31 October

Late applications will not be accepted, so applicants are encouraged to apply early.

Contact Details of Meat Industry Trust (MIT)

For any queries regarding the bursary programme, contact:

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