As new mining projects expand in Limpopo, companies are increasingly linking skills development to the communities surrounding their operations. In the Sekhukhune District, Southern Sphere Platinum is funding second-year university students through its 2026 bursary programme, aimed at building a local pipeline of technical and professional skills.
The bursary is limited to students from communities in Sekhukhune, where the company is developing an open-pit platinum and chrome operation in the Steelpoort area.
Focus on Skills Linked to Mining and Infrastructure
The programme targets fields directly connected to mining, environmental management, and industrial development. These include engineering disciplines, geology, environmental sciences, and technology-related studies, as well as legal fields linked to the sector.
By focusing on second-year students, the company is prioritising candidates who have already demonstrated academic capability at university level and are progressing toward specialised careers.
Financial Support of Up to R200 000
Southern Sphere Platinum has indicated that successful applicants may receive funding of up to R200 000 per student, covering tuition, accommodation, prescribed textbooks, and meal allowances.
The bursary does not cover outstanding fees from previous years, and applicants already receiving funding from other bursary schemes will not be considered.
Who Can Apply
The bursary is open to South African students from the Sekhukhune District who are currently enrolled in their second year of study. Applicants must have achieved a minimum average of 60 percent across all first-year subjects and must be studying at one of the specified institutions, including the University of Limpopo, North-West University, University of the Witwatersrand, University of Johannesburg, or University of Pretoria.
Preference may be given to students who demonstrate financial need.
Application Process and Deadline
Applications must be submitted by email to to: bursaries@southernsphere.co.za, with no formal application form required.
Candidates are expected to send a comprehensive submission that includes certified copies of identification documents, academic records, proof of registration, and confirmation of residence within the Sekhukhune District, along with a motivation explaining why they should be selected.
Applications close at 17:00 on 6 April 2026, and late or incomplete submissions may not be considered.
Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete psychometric assessments and attend interviews as part of the selection process.
Samantha Sibiya is part of the editorial team at internshipplaza.co.za, contributing career guidance and opportunity-based content for South African youth. She works closely with verified employer data, government publications, and institutional sources to ensure readers receive accurate and trustworthy information. Contact: samantha@internshipplaza.co.za