Applications Open for PAMSA Bursary 2026-2027

Final-year students pursuing BSc and BEng degrees in Chemical Engineering, as well as recent graduates, are encouraged to apply for the Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa's (Pamsa's) Master's in Engineering Bursary and Research Programme for the 2026-2027 academic year. This prestigious program offers a limited number of eligible candidates a two-year bursary valued at R320,000, which covers full-time Master's studies at several participating South African universities, including Stellenbosch University, the University of Johannesburg, the University of the North-West, and the University of Pretoria.

The initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of chemical and process engineers dedicated to advancing a circular bioeconomy. Pamsa's executive director emphasizes that this program has been instrumental for over 15 years, serving as a significant career launchpad for many young engineers. The pulp and paper industry relies on renewable natural resources, particularly wood fiber from sustainably managed plantations, to produce essential products such as printing and writing paper, paperboard, packaging, and tissue products. Many of these items are manufactured in South Africa and often incorporate recycled paper fiber, further supporting a circular economy.

One of the program's most exciting aspects is the innovative approaches students have taken to extract value from mill process waste streams, transforming them into sustainable products. Over the years, participants have engaged in diverse projects, ranging from enhancing water and energy efficiency in paper mills to optimizing production processes and producing bio-ethanol from paper sludge. This kind of innovative thinking is invaluable for Pamsa members and the broader South African circular bioeconomy.

The application deadlines for this opportunity are as follows: the early bird deadline is 6 June 2025, with early applicants receiving priority consideration, while the final deadline is Friday, 27 June 2025. For more information or to apply, interested candidates should visit the Pamsa Bursary Programme page.

Foreword from Mr. Kinnear, CEO of Reliance Poultry Equipment

"As we enter 2025, Reliance Poultry Equipment remains committed to advancing the poultry industry through innovation, sustainability, and excellence. With over three decades of experience, we have built a reputation for delivering high-quality poultry equipment tailored to the needs of farmers across South and Sub-Saharan Africa. Looking ahead, our mission is to continue enhancing farm productivity, sustainability, and efficiency through cutting-edge solutions and strategic partnerships. We are dedicated to ensuring that poultry farming remains a viable, profitable, and future-ready industry." - Mr. Peter Kinnear, CEO, Reliance Poultry Equipment

Poultry Equipment: Shaping the Future of Poultry Farming

As one of the leading poultry equipment manufacturers and distributors in the region, Reliance Poultry Equipment continues to set industry benchmarks in quality, efficiency, and sustainability. The company's focus for 2025 is centered on innovation, automation, and farmer success.

Key Focus Areas for 2025:

Automation & Smart Farming Solutions

We are investing in automated feeding, drinking, and climate control systems to improve farm productivity and reduce operational costs. These advancements will help farmers optimize resource management and maintain optimal conditions for flock health.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Farming Practices

With growing global emphasis on sustainability, we are committed to offering energy-efficient and waste-reducing poultry solutions. Our reconditioning services also help extend the lifespan of equipment, reducing environmental impact.

Expansion & Industry Collaboration

Reliance Poultry Equipment aims to expand its footprint, reaching more farmers with customized solutions for large and small-scale poultry operations. We will continue collaborating with industry stakeholders, government initiatives, and research institutions to drive sustainable growth in the poultry sector.

Supporting Farmers with Training & After-Sales Excellence

We believe that empowering farmers is key to industry growth. In 2025, we will expand training programs and provide ongoing support to ensure that farmers get the best out of their equipment. Looking Ahead

As the agricultural sector evolves, Reliance Poultry Equipment remains steadfast in its mission to support, innovate, and lead. By embracing advanced technologies, sustainability practices, and customer-focused strategies, we are well-positioned to shape the future of poultry farming in South Africa and beyond.

Road Services in South Africa

Road services play a critical role in South Africa's transportation infrastructure, supporting economic growth, trade, and daily mobility. The country has an extensive road network that connects cities, rural areas, and neighboring countries, making road transport the backbone of commerce and industry.

Efficient road services ensure the safe and smooth movement of goods and people. This includes road maintenance, traffic management, and emergency response services. Well-maintained roads reduce travel time, lower vehicle maintenance costs, and improve road safety. However, challenges such as potholes, congestion, and inadequate public transport systems affect the efficiency of road services.

Government initiatives, such as the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), oversee the development and maintenance of major highways and toll roads. Investments in road upgrades, smart traffic management systems, and alternative transport solutions are essential to improving mobility and reducing congestion in urban areas.

Additionally, road services are vital for emergency response, ensuring that ambulances, fire trucks, and law enforcement can reach their destinations quickly. Reliable road networks also enhance tourism, making travel between key destinations smoother and more enjoyable.

While road infrastructure development remains a priority, there is also a need for sustainable solutions, such as improved public transport, alternative fuels, and smart road technology. By enhancing road services, South Africa can boost economic activity, improve road safety, and create a more efficient transport system for all citizens.

The Importance of Water Saving in South Africa

Water is one of South Africa's most precious and limited resources. As a water-scarce country, South Africa faces ongoing challenges due to climate change, population growth, and increasing demand for water in agriculture, industry, and households. Efficient water usage is essential to ensure long-term sustainability and prevent future shortages.

South Africa's rainfall is lower than the global average, and many regions experience frequent droughts. The country's reliance on inconsistent rainfall means that careful water management is crucial for maintaining supplies for drinking, sanitation, food production, and economic activities. When water is wasted, it reduces availability for essential uses and threatens ecosystems, agriculture, and industries that rely on a stable water supply.

Saving water helps conserve natural ecosystems such as rivers, wetlands, and dams, which play a vital role in water filtration and biodiversity. When these water sources dry up due to overuse or drought, it negatively impacts wildlife, farming communities, and people who depend on them. Efficient water use also reduces pressure on South Africa's aging water infrastructure, preventing costly repairs and water losses due to leaks and inefficiencies.

Water-saving measures, such as fixing leaks, using water-efficient appliances, harvesting rainwater, and reducing unnecessary consumption, can make a significant difference. Government initiatives, businesses, and individuals must work together to promote sustainable water use through education, improved technology, and responsible consumption practices.

With growing concerns about climate change and future water security, South Africans must prioritize water conservation. By taking proactive steps to reduce wastage, the country can ensure a more resilient and sustainable water supply for generations to come.

4 days ago

Proteas Women Secure ODI Series Win in the Caribbean

Newly appointed Proteas Women’s head coach Mandla Mashimbyi expressed his satisfaction following SAs 2-1 series victory over the West Indies, capped off with a dominant 166-run win via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method in a rain-affected final match.


SA bounced back after losing the opening game by four wickets, showing marked improvements in bowling discipline — a concern noted earlier in the tour. According to Mashimbyi, the players' commitment in recent months was evident, and winning a series in the Caribbean was a significant achievement. He also emphasised that while the team is still developing, the effort and determination are encouraging signs of progress.


The Proteas batting form has been consistently strong, having posted multiple 300-run innings during their recent tri-series in Sri Lanka. In the West Indies, opening pair Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits continued their form, with Brits scoring a century and Wolvaardt contributing 75 runs. Their efforts helped the team reach 278 in 45.5 overs — a total that proved unassailable.


Nondumiso Shangase’s half-century in the second ODI was described by Mashimbyi as an emotional and proud moment for the team. This tour marked his first visit to the West Indies as head coach, making the series win even more meaningful.


With the ICC Womens World Cup scheduled in India this September, Mashimbyi stated that the recent tours have helped fine-tune the team’s batting combinations. He highlighted the importance of deploying players in positions where they can have the most impact, rather than rigidly assigning them by batting number.


The team has developed its own Bomb Squad—a trio of players (Chloe Tryon, Delmi Tucker, and Nadine de Klerk) who are tasked with shifting momentum late in the innings, whether rescuing a collapse or building on a strong foundation. Mashimbyi noted that these tactical changes are beginning to yield positive results.


He also pointed out the noticeable improvement in bowling discipline, especially from the first match in Colombo to the recent games in the Caribbean. The return of veteran Marizanne Kapp was described as a major boost due to her wealth of experience and influence.


Mashimbyi concluded that while there’s still work ahead, the team is on the right track and building confidence ahead of the World Cup.

4 days ago

Proteas Triumph Sparks Praise and Promised Bonuses

SA national cricket team, the Proteas, returned home to a hero’s welcome at OR Tambo International Airport after a historic victory against Australia in the ICC World Test Championship final at Lords. The team secured a five-wicket win, claiming their first major title since the 1998 Champions Trophy and proudly brought home the ICC Test Mace.

The Minister of Sport, Gayton McKenzie, was present at the airport to greet the victorious squad. He hinted that the players are in line for financial rewards, with further announcements expected at a media briefing at Cricket SAs headquarters in Johannesburg later in the day. McKenzie jokingly remarked that the volume of bonuses for South Africa’s recent sporting successes could be enough to drain the national treasury.

This cricketing achievement adds to a growing list of sporting milestones. The Springboks clinched consecutive Rugby World Cup titles in 2019 and 2023. Bafana Bafana secured third place at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations and qualified for the next tournament, set to be hosted in Morocco from December 26.

At the 2024 Paris Olympics, South Africa earned six medals, including a gold by swimmer Tatjana Smith and a silver in the men’s 4x100 relay, anchored by Akani Simbine. Strength athletes Rayno Nel and Brendali Theron also brought pride to the nation, recently winning the titles of World’s Strongest Man and Woman, respectively.

McKenzie attributed the Proteas success to leadership and belief within the team. He commended coach Shukri Conrad for building a strong mindset and credited captain Temba Bavuma for guiding the team with resolve. According to the minister, the Proteas' confidence and unity were the foundation of their triumph.

He also emphasised the team’s representation of SAs diversity. McKenzie highlighted the importance of national teams reflecting the nations demographics, saying the Proteas, like the Springboks, serve as a symbol of unity and inclusion. With Bavuma as captain, children of all backgrounds have someone to look up to, he added.

McKenzie concluded that South Africa has become a leading sporting nation, boasting top athletes, diverse representation, and a culture of excellence across disciplines.

4 days ago

South Africa Secures $1 Billion for Green Industrial Transformation

South Africa has been chosen as one of seven emerging economies to receive a $1 billion concessional financing program aimed at decarbonizing heavy industry and fostering green economic growth. This funding, provided through the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) new Industry Decarbonization Investment Programme, positions the nation to explore substantial opportunities in clean energy, low-carbon manufacturing, and circular economy innovations.



The CIF initiative, recognized as the first large-scale concessional fund dedicated to industrial decarbonization, focuses on high-emission sectors such as steel, aluminum, cement, and chemicals. Other countries benefiting from this program include Brazil, Egypt, Mexico, Namibia, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan.



This funding arrives at a crucial moment for South Africa, which is striving to meet its global decarbonization commitments while ensuring a just energy transition that protects jobs and promotes economic growth. The CIF program plans to collaborate with multilateral development banks (MDBs) and the private sector to develop national investment plans that prioritize technologies like green hydrogen, waste-heat recovery, low-carbon materials, and carbon capture and storage.



The concessional aspect of the financing makes it particularly appealing to private investors, allowing for up to 100% project funding with a minimum of 50% investment guaranteed. CIF anticipates that each dollar of concessional capital will attract an additional $12 in public and private co-financing, potentially generating over $12 billion in total investments across the seven participating countries.



SAs inclusion is expected to expedite the implementation of key initiatives, such as the SA-H2 fund, a $1 billion blended-finance platform aimed at supporting green hydrogen infrastructure. The CIF program may also facilitate decarbonization pilots in hard-to-abate sectors like mining, cement, and steel, which are significant contributors to national emissions.



CIFs CEO, Tariye Gbadegesin, highlighted that the program aims not only to cut carbon emissions but also to enhance long-term industrial competitiveness and resilience. The initiative will incorporate social safeguards and workforce reskilling to assist communities reliant on carbon-intensive industries, aligning with SAs Just Transition Framework that promotes inclusive development.



As global value chains shift towards greener practices, access to CIF funding offers SA a vital opportunity to modernize its industrial sector and maintain its competitiveness in export markets, particularly in the EU, which is tightening carbon border regulations. The next steps involve co-designing the national investment plan with MDBs and private-sector partners, with project rollouts expected to commence in 2026.

1 week ago

South Africa Commits to Marine Biodiversity Protection with New International Agreement

South Africa has officially signed an agreement focused on safeguarding marine biodiversity in ocean areas that fall outside the jurisdiction of any single nation. In a statement made on Monday, Dr. Dion George, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, highlighted the countrys active involvement in negotiating the international Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This agreement aims to promote the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in regions beyond national control.



The BBNJ agreement represents the first comprehensive global framework designed to protect biodiversity in the high seas and on the ocean floor beyond national jurisdictions. Commonly known as the high seas treaty, it addresses significant governance gaps affecting two-thirds of the ocean that are not governed by any nation. The agreement introduces essential tools, including area-based management, environmental impact assessments, capacity building, and a mechanism for sharing marine genetic resources.

The minister emphasized the need for enhanced global cooperation, improved scientific collaboration, and increased financial and technical support for developing nations. This support is crucial for the effective and inclusive implementation of the legally binding BBNJ agreement. He urged all member states and regional organizations to promptly sign and ratify the agreement to ensure its swift entry into force and effective execution, which is vital for protecting marine biodiversity for both current and future generations.



These comments were made following a high-profile signing ceremony that occurred during the third United Nations Oceans Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France. Co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, UNOC3 aims to accelerate global efforts to conserve and sustainably utilize ocean resources, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.



In accordance with SAs existing legal frameworks, the signing of the BBNJ agreement is anticipated to enhance global ocean governance and support local initiatives aimed at economic development while ensuring the protection of ocean ecosystems.