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.