SAIMI Bursary 2025 for Tertiary Students. The South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) is offering bursaries for the 2025 academic year, focusing on advancing opportunities for Black female students in the maritime industry. This bursary aims to support young women pursuing qualifications in the maritime field, aligning with South Africa’s broader efforts to boost representation and capability within the Oceans Economy.
SAIMI Bursary 2025 for Tertiary Students
The SAIMI bursary seeks to empower Black female students by offering comprehensive financial support across various academic levels, from undergraduate to PhD. The bursary not only covers tuition fees, textbooks, and subsidized accommodation but also includes an allowance for meals. Moreover, bursary recipients will gain valuable exposure to the maritime sector by attending SAIMI-hosted conferences, local maritime events, and actively participating in maritime and scientific organizations.
Benefits of the SAIMI Bursary:
- Full Tuition Coverage: Ensures recipients can focus on their studies without financial barriers.
- Textbook and Learning Resources: Provision for essential academic materials.
- Accommodation and Meal Allowance: Subsidized support for accommodation and meals.
- Networking Opportunities: Access to maritime conferences, events, and community engagements that enrich industry knowledge.
This bursary directly supports students’ academic journeys, equipping them for meaningful careers in the Oceans Economy, while encouraging greater participation from underrepresented groups.
Eligibility Requirements for the SAIMI Bursary
Applicants must meet specific criteria depending on their academic level to be considered for this bursary. Below are the detailed eligibility requirements for Undergraduate, Honours and Masters, and PhD students.
1. Undergraduate Students
To qualify for the SAIMI bursary as an undergraduate, applicants must meet the following criteria:
| Eligibility Requirements | Description |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Must be a South African citizen. |
| Age | Between 17 and 30 years old. |
| Gender | Must be female. |
| Designated Group | Must be from a previously disadvantaged group, specifically Black Africans, Coloureds, and Indians (as per the Black Economic Empowerment Act of 2003). |
| Academic Level | Currently in Matric or have completed Matric with high academic performance. |
| Field of Study | Must be studying or accepted to study a maritime-related qualification on a full-time basis at an accredited South African institution. |
| Academic Performance | Minimum 70% overall average if already studying; A and B symbols in Matric. |
| Financial Category | Must fall within the “missing middle” financial category, with parental income between R350,000 and R600,000 annually. |
2. Honours and Masters Students
Eligibility Criteria:
Honours and Masters applicants must satisfy these requirements:
| Eligibility Requirements | Description |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Must be a South African citizen. |
| Gender | Must be female. |
| Designated Group | Must belong to a previously disadvantaged group, including Black Africans, Coloureds, and Indians (as per BEE Act 2003). |
| Field of Study | Must be pursuing a maritime-related qualification on a full-time basis at an accredited South African institution. |
| Academic Record | Must have completed at least one year of study, with a minimum 70% overall average at the undergraduate level and a 65% minimum average at the Honours level. |
| Financial Category | Falls within the “missing middle” category, with parental earnings between R350,000 and R600,000 per year. |
3. PhD Students
Eligibility Criteria:
PhD candidates must fulfill the following conditions to be eligible:
| Eligibility Requirements | Description |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Must be a South African citizen. |
| Gender | Female applicants only. |
| Designated Group | Must be from a previously disadvantaged group, including Black Africans, Coloureds, and Indians (as per BEE Act 2003). |
| Field of Study | Must be pursuing a full-time maritime-related qualification at an accredited South African institution. |
| Academic Record | Minimum 70% average in previous Master’s studies. |
| Financial Category | Should fall under the “missing middle” with parental income between R350,000 and R600,000 annually. |
Application Process for the SAIMI Bursary
The application process for the SAIMI Bursary is straightforward but requires attention to detail to ensure all required documents are submitted accurately and on time.
Step-by-Step Application Guide:
- Download the Application Form
Choose the appropriate application form based on your academic level:- Undergraduate Application Form
- Honours or Masters Application Form
- PhD Application Form
- Complete the Form with Precision
Fill out all required sections of the application form, ensuring your personal details, academic background, and contact information are accurate. - Attach Necessary Documentation
Gather and attach the following documents to support your application:- Certified Copy of ID
- Proof of Academic Record: Current or previous transcripts demonstrating academic achievement.
- Proof of Enrollment or Acceptance: Official documents from your tertiary institution.
- Proof of Financial Category: Submit evidence of parental income to confirm eligibility in the “missing middle” financial bracket.
- Submit via Email
Send the completed application form and supporting documents to [email protected].
Note: It is crucial to submit the application by the deadline, 30 November 2024, as late submissions will not be considered.
SAIMI Bursary Benefits
Receiving the SAIMI bursary offers more than financial relief; it opens doors to an enriching experience in the South African maritime sector. Bursary recipients will gain:
- Industry Exposure: SAIMI offers beneficiaries access to high-profile industry events and conferences.
- Networking Opportunities: Students will engage with maritime experts, industry stakeholders, and fellow peers, expanding their professional networks.
- Professional Development: Involvement in maritime and scientific bodies provides practical insights and firsthand experience in maritime studies and sciences.
These benefits not only build students’ academic foundation but also prepare them for impactful careers in Oceans Economy sectors like shipping, marine conservation, offshore energy, and logistics.
Why Apply for the SAIMI Bursary?
The SAIMI Bursary 2025 is an excellent opportunity for Black female students seeking a career in maritime studies to receive substantial financial aid, professional growth opportunities, and valuable insights into the maritime industry. As the demand for skilled professionals in South Africa’s oceans economy rises, SAIMI’s commitment to nurturing talented female students from underrepresented communities is instrumental in shaping a diverse and inclusive industry landscape.
Conclusion
The SAIMI Bursary 2025 plays a vital role in empowering Black female students within South Africa’s maritime industry. By providing financial assistance, professional exposure, and networking opportunities, SAIMI equips students to excel in a critical sector of the economy. The bursary not only eases the financial burden but also encourages active engagement with industry leaders, making it a valuable stepping stone for any aspiring female maritime professional.
