Learnerships & Apprenticeships
SAMAC 2026 Bursary Programme Launches – Secure Your Internship Spot Today
Macadamias South Africa NPC (SAMAC) invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their 2026 Bursary Programme.
The closing date for applications is 31 January 2026.
Quick Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary Name | SAMAC Bursary Programme 2026 |
| Who can apply | South African students studying or planning to study Agriculture or Horticulture |
| Preferred fields | Anything that ties to macadamia growing and processing |
| What it pays for | • Tuition fees • Required textbooks • Student housing |
What the SAMAC Bursary Covers
- Tuition – the official cost of your university courses.
- Textbooks – science books are expensive; this helps you get the right ones.
- Accommodation – if you need to move to a new city for school, this can cover most of the rent.
The aim is to let you focus on learning without worrying about money for basics.
Who Should Apply?
- Students enrolled in an agricultural or horticultural faculty.
- Those who want to work with macadamia trees, or more broadly with agriculture.
- Students who show strong grades, a passion for farming, and a real need for help.
- Applicants whose family is already in the macadamia business get a little extra weight.
Minimum Requirements (Eligibility)
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must have finished high school (matric) or still be in it.
- Must be studying or plan to study a degree or diploma in agriculture.
- Must be accepted or already studying at a recognised South African university.
- Need good academic performance.
- Must prove a genuine financial need.
- Post‑grad students only accepted if their study helps macadamia farming – e.g., plant science, soil science, pest control, etc.
How to Apply – Step‑by‑Step
- Get the application form – request it at juandre@samac.org.za or runal@samac.org.za.
- Gather documents – ID copy, matric results or certificate, proof of school admission, full academic record if already studying, CV, a short motivation letter, evidence of money you need, optional reference letters.
- Email everything – send the completed form and attachments to the same email addresses.
- Submit before the deadline – 31 January 2026.
Download the Application Forms
• Undergraduate Form
• Postgraduate Form
What to Write in Your Motivational Letter
Make your letter stand out by answering these points:
- Why you love agriculture or horticulture.
- Why you want to be part of the macadamia industry.
- Your future career dreams.
- Your best school subjects and any awards.
- Your honest financial situation.
- Why you deserve this help.
- How you plan to give back to the community or the industry.
If a family member works in macadamia farming, tell us where they work, what they do, and how it sparked your interest.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Apply early – last‑minute emails can get lost.
- Keep documents clear – scan or photograph so they’re easy to read.
- Name files properly – e.g.,
ID_JaneDoe.pdf,MatricResults_JaneDoe.pdf. - Show your interest in macadamia – even if you’re not from a farming family, discuss the challenges and innovations in the sector.
- Be honest about money – explain why you need support, but keep it respectful.
Career Paths After the Bursary
| Stage | Possible Jobs |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | Farm intern, crop assistant, quality control helper, soil lab assistant |
| Mid Level | Orchard manager, pest‑control specialist, soil adviser, supply‑chain manager |
| Senior/Research | Agronomist, plant pathologist, crop science researcher, soil scientist |
| Long Term | Own farm, start a farm‑based business, work for government or research institutes, become a part of SAMAC or similar organizations |
A bursary can launch a career that feeds communities and boosts South Africa’s export market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the bursary only for children of macadamia farmers? | No, it’s open to all agriculture students, but extra points go to those with family ties to the industry. |
| Can I apply if I’m still in high school? | Yes – you can be a matric student or have finished matric. |
| Which fields are most liked? | Anything that helps macadamia production: plant science, soil science, pest management, etc. |
| What does the bursary pay? | Tuition, textbooks, and accommodation. |
| Can I study after the first year? | Yes – the bursary supports full programmes, including post‑graduates if relevant. |
| Where do I send my application? | Email the completed form and documents to juandre@samac.org.za or runal@samac.org.za. |
| Will applying guarantee the bursary? | No – it is competitive and depends on your grades, need, and fit with the criteria. |
Disclaimers
- This post simply shares an opportunity – SAMAC decides who gets the bursary.
- All information you submit must be true.
- Late or incomplete applications may be rejected.
- Terms and coverage can change at SAMAC’s discretion.
Ready to apply?
Apply for the 2026 SAMAC Bursary now
Good luck, and we hope you build a bright future in South Africa’s growing macadamia industry!
