Sasol Mining Women in Fenceline Communities Bursary Programme 2027

Sasol Mining is offering a valuable opportunity for young women in communities near its Secunda Complex. The Women in Fenceline Communities Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year aims to support academically strong female students pursuing technical and engineering qualifications. This bursary is designed to empower women in fields critical to the mining industry, such as engineering, mining, and geology.

The application period opens on August 24, 2026, and closes promptly at midnight on September 13, 2026. This programme represents a significant commitment by Sasol Mining to invest in the future of women within its operational areas and the broader technical landscape of South Africa.

Overview of the Sasol Mining Bursary Programme

The Sasol Mining Women in Fenceline Communities Bursary Programme is specifically for female learners and university students residing in communities surrounding the Secunda Mining Complex. This initiative focuses on supporting undergraduate studies in technical and engineering disciplines. To be eligible, applicants must be no older than 25 years old at the time of application. A key requirement is living within approximately 50 kilometers of the Secunda Complex.

Academically, candidates need to demonstrate strong performance, with a minimum of 70% in Mathematics and Physical Science, and 60% in English. The bursary is described as all-inclusive, covering undergraduate studies in approved fields. Applications are managed online and have a strict closing date.

Eligible Fields of Study

This bursary targets specific technical and engineering qualifications that are essential for the mining sector. Successful applicants will receive funding for undergraduate degrees in the following areas:

• Electrical Engineering: Focusing on the design, development, and maintenance of electrical systems.
• Electronic Engineering: Dealing with electronic circuits, devices, and systems.
• Mechanical Engineering: Involving the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems.
• Mining Engineering: Specializing in the planning, design, and operation of mines.
• Geology: The scientific study of the Earth, its structure, and the rocks composing it.
• Mine Surveying: The precise measurement and mapping of underground and surface mine areas.

Funding is available for relevant Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees within these approved disciplines at South African universities.

Who Can Apply?

To be considered for the Sasol Mining Women in Fenceline Communities Bursary Programme, applicants must meet several criteria. Firstly, they must be female and not exceed the age of 25 at the time of application. The programme is open to current Grade 12 learners, as well as university students in their first, second, or third year of study.

All applicants must be planning to study or currently be studying at an accredited South African university. A crucial requirement is residency within approximately 50 kilometers of the Sasol Mining Secunda Complex and its surrounding communities. Meeting the minimum academic standards is also essential for eligibility.

Minimum Academic Requirements

Strong academic performance is a cornerstone of this bursary. Applicants must have achieved the following minimum results in their previous academic year:

• Mathematics: A minimum of 70% is required. It is important to note that Mathematical Literacy is generally not accepted as an equivalent for this requirement.
• Physical Science: A minimum of 70% is necessary.
• English: A minimum of 60% is needed.

Candidates are advised to review their academic results carefully before submitting their applications to ensure they meet these specific thresholds.

Residence Requirement

This bursary is specifically designed to benefit women from the local communities surrounding Sasol’s mining operations. Therefore, a strict residence requirement is in place. Applicants must reside within a radius of approximately 50 kilometers from Secunda and its surrounding communities.

Proof of residence may be requested during the application process, so applicants should be prepared to provide documentation that verifies their address. This geographical focus ensures that the bursary directly supports the communities that are closest to Sasol Mining’s Secunda Complex.

What the Bursary Covers

The Sasol Mining Women in Fenceline Communities Bursary Programme is described as an “all-inclusive undergraduate bursary.” While a detailed breakdown of every covered expense is not provided in the initial information, this typically means that the bursary aims to cover the majority of costs associated with tertiary education.

Applicants should refer to the official bursary application platform or any bursary agreement provided by Sasol for precise details on funding benefits, conditions, and any obligations they may have as bursary recipients. This ensures clarity on what expenses are covered, such as tuition fees, accommodation, books, and living allowances.

Eligible Study Levels

The bursary is not limited to students who are currently in their final year of high school. It also extends to university students who are already pursuing their undergraduate degrees. Qualifying students who are currently in their first, second, or third year of university are encouraged to apply.

All applicants, regardless of their current study level, must continue to meet all other eligibility criteria, including age, academic performance, field of study, and residence requirements. This inclusivity allows Sasol Mining to support students at various stages of their undergraduate journey.

Documents to Prepare

To ensure a smooth application process, candidates should prepare a set of commonly required documents. While the exact list may vary, it is advisable to have the following ready:

• South African ID Document: A copy of your identification.
• Recent Academic Results: This includes Grade 11 or Grade 12 results for current high school students, or university academic transcripts for current university students.
• Proof of University Registration or Admission: If applicable, documentation confirming your enrollment or acceptance into a university program.
• Proof of Residence: Documents that verify your address within the specified fenceline communities.
• Additional Supporting Documents: Any other documents that Sasol may specifically request on their application system.

It is essential to follow the precise document requirements listed on the official Sasol bursary application system to avoid any issues.

How to Apply

Applications for the Sasol Mining Women in Fenceline Communities Bursary Programme must be submitted online through the official Sasol bursary platform. Applicants will need to navigate to the platform, locate the specific bursary opportunity, and complete all sections of the application form accurately.

The application portal is designed to guide applicants through the process, ensuring all necessary information is provided. It is recommended to start the application early to allow ample time for completion and to address any potential technical difficulties.

Bursary Application Closing Date

The deadline for submitting applications is September 13, 2026, at midnight. It is critical for all interested candidates to ensure their applications are fully completed and submitted before this time. Late applications will not be considered.

Conclusion

The Sasol Mining Women in Fenceline Communities Bursary Programme for 2027 offers a significant opportunity for young women in the Secunda area to pursue higher education in vital technical and engineering fields. By meeting the academic, age, and residence requirements, eligible candidates can secure funding for their undergraduate studies. Aspiring engineers and geologists are encouraged to apply before the September 13, 2026 deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions