Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA) Bursary 2027

WHAT FIELDS OF STUDY DOES THE PAMSA BURSARY PROGRAMME COVER?

The Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA) is inviting students to apply for their Bursary and Research Programme, for the 2027 academic year.

Bursaries will be awarded for Master’s degree studies in Chemical Engineering, at the following participating universities:

• Stellenbosch University
• University of Witwatersrand
• University of the North-West
• University of Pretoria

For over 10 years, the PAMSA Bursary and Research Programme has been empowering South African chemical engineering students, by way of funding, academic support, and practical research opportunities. The programme focuses on developing future industry leaders by encouraging research that addresses real challenges within the pulp and paper sector.

Through this initiative, students gain valuable experience in areas linked to sustainability, renewable resources, recycling, and improving manufacturing efficiency. The bursary programme also contributes to the growth of South Africa’s circular bioeconomy by supporting innovative research projects that promote the responsible use of natural and recycled materials within the industry.

** RELATED BURSARIES **

• View our other Engineering Bursaries and Scholarships here.
• View our other Postgraduate Bursaries and Scholarships here.
• View our other Bursaries and Scholarships OPEN for application here.

WHAT EXPENSES DOES THE PAMSA BURSARY COVER?

The bursary will provide funding for 2 years, to the value of R320 000, aimed at covering the following fees: tuition fees, accommodation, study materials and living expenses.

www.zabursaries.co.za is committed to keeping you up to date with the latest bursary opportunities, and this article covers all details about the PAMSA Bursary.

WHAT OTHER BENEFITS DOES THE PAMSA BURSARY OFFER?

Bursary recipients will also gain hands-on research, by tackling real-world challenges in pulp, paper, and bio-based materials. They will also join an industry rooted in renewable resources and circular thinking.

Bursary recipients may also be offered employment as an engineer-in-training at participating PAMSA member companies.

WHAT IS THE SELECTION PROCESS FOR THE PAMSA BURSARY?

Shortlisted applicants will be contacted and invited to attend an interview. Applicants who do not received any feedback, should consider their application as unsuccessful.

WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR THE PAMSA BURSARY?

Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying (please note that failure to satisfy all the requirements will lead to your application not being considered):

• You must preferably be a South African citizen (students who are not SA citizens are also welcome to apply)
• You must be in your final year of BEng or BSc Chemical Engineering studies OR a have recently graduated with a BEng or BSc Chemical Engineering degree at a South African university
• You must achieve a minimum overall average of 60% in your final year of study
• You must have completed your studies OR be on track to complete your studies in 5 years or less
• You must intend on studying towards a Masters in Chemical Engineering, in 2027
• You must be studying at one of these participating universities in South Africa: Stellenbosch University, University of Witwatersrand, University of the North-West, University of Pretoria

HOW CAN I APPLY FOR THE PAMSA BURSARY?

Applications must be submitted online at: PAMSA Bursary Application 2027

Enter “www.zabursaries.co.za” in the field asking how you heard about the PAMSA bursary.

WHAT DOCUMENTS MUST I SUBMIT FOR THE PAMSA BURSARY?

Submit clear copies of the following documentation with your online application (the submission of these documents is compulsory – if any items are missing, your application may be disqualified):

• Short Curriculum Vitae
• Full academic record/ transcripts for all years of university study (on institutions letterhead)
• Motivational letter stating why you should be awarded the bursary and your areas of interest (read our tips on how to write a bursary motivational letter here)
• Letter of reference from lecturer (with their contact details) (read our tips on how to get a reference letter/ testimonial for your bursary application)

WHEN IS THE CLOSING DATE FOR THE PAMSA BURSARY?

Not confirmed – apply ASAP. Applications usually close in June each year.

(Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted – please apply before the closing date to ensure your application is considered.)

HOW CAN I CONTACT THE BURSARY PROVIDER?

For any queries related to this bursary programme, please contact PAMSA directly:
Contact person: Julie Borland
Email: borlandj@mweb.co.za
Tel: 011 803 5063

Please do NOT contact PAMSA if this bursary has already closed. View our other bursaries open for application here: https://www.zabursaries.co.za/bursary-news/

WHAT DOES PAMSA DO?

The Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA), founded in 1992, are known for promoting paper as a renewable and recyclable material for packaging, communication and various other applications.

PAMSA represent more than 90% of South Africa’s paper, packaging and tissue manufacturers, in fact they are called the ‘voice of the pulp and paper industry’.

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This bursary listing was last updated in May 2026.

SA Bursaries wishes you the best of luck with your application! Please remember to SHARE this page with anyone you know who may be in need of bursary funding.