PAMSA South Africa Master’s in Chemical Engineering Bursary 2025
The Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA) is offering a prestigious Master’s bursary for 2025, tailored for students passionate about sustainability, innovation, and bio-based industries. This competitive bursary provides R320,000 over two years to support tuition, research, and living expenses. More than just financial aid, the program gives students the opportunity to work on real-world research in waste valorisation, energy efficiency, and bio-product development. Participants may also qualify for employment as engineers-in-training within PAMSA-affiliated companies. The program supports South Africa’s vision for a greener future by investing in young engineering talent dedicated to sustainable innovation.
Eligible Degree Level:
Master’s (MSc or MEng)
Eligible Fields:
Chemical Engineering (with research in bioeconomy, pulp and paper industry, sustainability)
Scholarship Type:
Partial Funding (R320,000 over two years)
Research Focus Areas
Selected candidates will participate in research aligned with industry needs, including:
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Waste valorisation and process innovation
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Energy and water efficiency in paper production
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Bioethanol and bioproducts from paper sludge
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Lignin extraction for industrial use (e.g., asphalt, fertilisers, water purification)
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Development of biocomposites from pulp and paper mill waste
Scholarship Benefits
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Funding: R320,000 over two years (tuition, living expenses, and research costs)
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Industry Exposure: Hands-on experience with projects linked to the circular bioeconomy
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Career Path: Potential employment as an engineer-in-training at PAMSA-affiliated companies
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Academic-Industry Integration: Engage in applied research with direct industry relevance
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
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Be final-year BSc or BEng students in Chemical Engineering, or recent graduates
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Be studying at a registered South African university
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Have an average of 60% or above in their final year
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Be able to complete their degree within five years
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Submit: CV, full academic transcript, two letters of reference, and a motivation letter
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Preference is given to South African citizens, but the opportunity is open to international students
Application Process
Interested candidates must apply online:
Apply here
Deadlines:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the PAMSA Master’s Bursary?
Final-year or recently graduated Chemical Engineering students from South African universities can apply. Preference is given to South African citizens, but international students may also be considered.
2. What expenses does the bursary cover?
The bursary covers R320,000 over two years, which includes tuition fees, research costs, and living expenses.
3. What kind of research projects will I work on?
You will work on applied research in areas like bioethanol production, waste valorisation, energy efficiency, and biocomposite development relevant to the pulp and paper industry.
4. Can this lead to employment?
Yes, selected students may be considered for employment as engineers-in-training at PAMSA member companies upon graduation.
5. Is the bursary renewable after the first year?
The bursary is structured for two years. Continued funding may depend on satisfactory academic and research progress.
