The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) was established under the Mine Health and Safety Act No. 29 of 1996. This organisation focuses on the crucial aspect of education and training for South Africa’s mining and minerals sector employees. The main goal of MQA is to improve the mining industry by providing skills development programmes. These programmes aim to make sure that the mining sector has the necessary skills to boost job opportunities, improve health and safety standards, and increase productivity. The MQA bursary helps create a more diverse and inclusive workforce, promotes safer working practices and keeps the industry competitive and strong by offering training and support. These efforts by MQA play a vital role in shaping a better future for the mining and minerals sector in South Africa.
In this article, we will discuss the requirements, eligibility, documentation and more about the MQA Bursary 2024.
MQA Bursary 2024: Fields To Choose From
The Mining Qualifications Authority (MAQ) has announced its opening for the 2024 academic year. The MQA has allotted 1000 bursaries to promising candidates pursuing academic qualifications in specified fields. Applicants pursuing the following disciplines are encouraged to apply:
University and University of Technology students
- Analytical Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electro-Mechanical Engineering
- Environmental Health and Management
- Geology
- Industrial Engineering
- Jewellery Design and Manufacturing
- Mechanical Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Mine Survey
- Mining Engineering
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Occupational Hygiene
- Occupational Medicine
- Operations Management
- Quality Management
Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College students
- Boilermaker
- Electrician
- Fitter and Turner
- Fitting (including Machinery)
- Instrumentation Mechanic
- Millwright
- Motor Mechanic (Diesel)
- Rigger Ropes Man
MQA Bursary Application: Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must ensure they meet the following minimum entry criteria before beginning the application process. Candidates must note that failure to satisfy ALL of these requirements will result in your application being rejected.
- Applicant must be a citizen of South Africa.
- You need to be in Matric currently or have already passed Matric.
- Candidates must be currently pursuing or planning to pursue an Undergraduate degree in one of the specified fields of study (funding for postgraduate studies is not available).
- You must be studying or intend to study at a public University, University of Technology, or TVET College in South Africa.
- Candidates must be unemployed and remain unemployed throughout their studies.
Read more about the Bursary Application process.
Preference will be given to:
- Female candidates
- Applicants who live in rural areas
- Candidates who have applied to study at a local college or university
- Aspirants who have a total household income of less than R600,000 per year and are experiencing financial difficulties.
- Applicants who have a strong academic record
- Economically disadvantaged individuals
What Are The MQA Bursary Requirements?
The MQA (Mining Qualifications Authority) Bursary Programme helps students pursue mining and minerals-related fields. To qualify for this bursary, applicants must meet these requirements:
Unemployed Candidates
The MQA Bursary is awarded to economically disadvantaged individuals who have a good academic background but require financial assistance to complete their studies. Female applicants, individuals residing in rural areas, and applicants of local institutions are given special consideration. Academic excellence is one of the crucial factors in the selection process. The bursary is provided every year as long as the student remains enroled. It is also reviewed and revised every year.
Employed Candidates
Individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds working in the mining and minerals sector have the opportunity to apply for financial aid and pursue a qualification in relation to the mining sector. The bursary includes complete tuition coverage and gives book allowances for each semester.
Documentation Requirements
When submitting your completed application form, make sure to include clear copies of the required supporting documents. Submitting these documents is mandatory; not including any items could result in your application being disqualified.
Here’s a list of documents that you require to complete the application process:
- Certified copy of your ID document
- Certified copy of your Grade 11 final report or Matric mid-year report (if currently in Matric)
- Proof of acceptance at a University, University of Technology, or TVET College for 2024 (on the institution’s letterhead, if currently in Matric)
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate (if completed Matric)
- Complete academic transcript from a tertiary institution (must be on official letterhead if currently enrolled)
- Official copies of the ID documents belonging to the parents or guardians.
- Proof of parent’s or guardian’s household income:
- Latest payslips if employed
- Affidavit if unemployed
- Affidavit if not in contact with one or more parent
- Proof of SASSA payment if applicable
- Death certificate if deceased
MQA Bursary Monthly Allowance
The bursary will include support for tuition fees, book fees, accommodation, and a meal allowance. This all-inclusive assistance aims to help students cover their academic and living costs as they progress their educational path.
Steps To Fill MQA Bursary Online Application
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply for the MQA Unemployed Learners Bursary. These steps will help you complete your MQA Unemployed Learners Bursary application smoothly. You can also contact the MQA personnel listed for your institution for more information.
- Go to the MQA website and download the MQA 2024 Unemployed Bursary Application Form.
- Complete the application form with all the required details and save it with your full name and surname.
- Make sure you have all the documents listed in the application form (Listed above in this article).
- Attach the completed application form and all required documents together.
- Email your application and documents to bursaries@mqa.org.za. The subject line should include your full name, surname, and ID number.
- Make sure to submit your application before the deadline.
- MQA will review your application and inform selected candidates.
What Is MQA Bursary Closing Date?
The MQA bursary application window opens each year from August to September. During this time, you can submit your application. Successful applicants will receive notification by the end of November. If you have not heard from MQA by then, your application was unsuccessful.
Conclusion
The MQA Bursary provides a chance for ambitious aspirants in the mining and minerals industry in South Africa. Through offering extensive financial aid and specific skills training, MQA not only promotes excellence in academics but also encourages a dynamic and all-inclusive workforce. This financial aid programme improves safety, productivity, and competitiveness in the sector, guaranteeing its long-term benefits. By prioritising education and empowerment, MQA plays a crucial part in moulding a better future for both the mining industry and the country.
For personalised guidance on bursary quotations, contact Regenesys expert guidance counsellors. We are here to help you effectively with your educational and financial aid options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – MQA Bursary 2024!
Q1. What does MQA bursary cover?
The bursary covers tuition fees, book allowance, accommodation allowance, and a meal allowance to support students throughout their academic journey.
Q2. What fields of study are covered by the MQA Bursary?
The bursary covers a variety of fields, including Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Geology, Mechanical Engineering, Mining Engineering, and more. Refer to the article for a full list.
Q3. Who gets preference for the MQA Bursary?
Female candidates, individuals from rural areas, applicants to local colleges/universities, those with a household income below R600,000 per year, and historically disadvantaged individuals with strong academic records are prioritised for the MQA Bursary.
Q4. Where can I get more information about the MQA Bursary?
For more information, applicants can contact the MQA personnel listed for their institution or visit the MQA website. You can also email the MQA headquarters at info@mqa.org.za.
Q5. How competitive is the MQA Bursary?
The MQA Bursary is highly competitive because only a few awards are offered. Therefore, it is essential to meet all eligibility requirements and submit a full application with all necessary documents.
