Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) Bursary 2025: Supporting Future Agricultural Leaders
Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) Bursary
About the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD)
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) plays a crucial role in South Africa’s socio-economic development. By focusing on agriculture, land reform, and rural development, the department aims to create sustainable livelihoods, promote food security, and advance equitable land distribution. The DALRRD is committed to nurturing the next generation of professionals who will drive innovation and progress in these critical areas.
As part of this commitment, the DALRRD offers bursaries to deserving students who wish to pursue careers in agriculture, land reform, and related fields. The DALRRD Bursary is designed to support students in acquiring the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the growth and transformation of South Africa’s agricultural sector.
DALRRD Bursary Overview
The DALRRD Bursary provides financial assistance to students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in agricultural sciences and related disciplines. This bursary is an investment in the future of South Africa’s agriculture and land reform sectors, ensuring that talented individuals have the opportunity to develop their skills and contribute to the country’s development.
Fields of Study Covered
The DALRRD Bursary is available to students pursuing studies in various fields that align with the department’s mandate, including:
- Agriculture (General)
- Animal Science
- Crop Science
- Soil Science
- Agricultural Economics
- Agri-Business Management
- Land and Water Management
- Food Technology
- Forestry
- Veterinary Science
- Plant Pathology
- Horticulture
- Land Reform and Rural Development
These fields are essential for advancing agricultural practices, promoting sustainable land use, and driving rural development in South Africa.
Bursary Coverage
The DALRRD Bursary offers comprehensive financial support, covering the following expenses:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees for the entire duration of the degree program.
- Accommodation and Meals: Financial assistance to cover on-campus or private accommodation and meals.
- Books and Study Materials: A stipend to assist with purchasing textbooks and other necessary study materials.
- Practical Training and Fieldwork: Support for costs associated with practical training, fieldwork, and other hands-on learning experiences.
- Living Allowance: A monthly stipend to help with additional living expenses, allowing students to focus on their studies.
The bursary is awarded for the duration of the academic program, subject to the recipient maintaining satisfactory academic progress and adhering to the terms and conditions of the bursary.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the DALRRD Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- South African Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens.
- Academic Performance: Applicants must have a strong academic record, with a minimum average of 60% in their current or most recent academic year.
- Enrollment in a Relevant Field: Applicants must be enrolled in or planning to enroll in a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate program in one of the fields of study covered by the bursary.
- Financial Need: Preference is given to students who demonstrate financial need.
- Commitment to Agriculture and Rural Development: Applicants should demonstrate a genuine interest in pursuing a career in agriculture, land reform, or rural development and show potential for contributing to these sectors.
In addition to these criteria, applicants who have participated in community service, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities related to agriculture and rural development are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
The application process for the DALRRD Bursary involves several key steps:
- Application Form: Applicants must complete the DALRRD Bursary Application Form, which can be downloaded from the DALRRD website or obtained from the department’s offices.
- Supporting Documents: The application must be accompanied by the following documents:
- Certified copy of the applicant’s South African ID
- Certified copies of academic transcripts or certificates
- Proof of enrollment or acceptance at a recognized institution
- A motivational letter explaining the applicant’s career goals, interest in agriculture, and how the bursary will assist in achieving these goals
- Proof of financial need (e.g., income statements or affidavits)
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
- Submission: Completed applications and supporting documents should be submitted to the DALRRD office via post, email, or in person, as specified in the application guidelines. Ensure that all materials are complete and submitted before the deadline.
Selection Process
The selection process for the DALRRD Bursary is competitive and involves a thorough review of all applications. The selection committee evaluates candidates based on their academic achievements, commitment to the fields of agriculture and rural development, and alignment with the bursary’s objectives.
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview or further assessment. Successful applicants will be notified of their bursary award and provided with further instructions on the terms and conditions of the bursary.
Application Deadline
The closing date for DALRRD Bursary applications is 30 September 2024. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to ensure consideration. Late applications will not be accepted, so it is important to complete the application process in a timely manner.
Contact Information
For more information or inquiries about the DALRRD Bursary, applicants can contact the DALRRD office through the following channels:
- Website: Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
- Email: bursary@dalrrd.gov.za
- Phone: 012 319 6000
- Postal Address: DALRRD Bursary Office, Private Bag X833, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
Additional Opportunities
For information on other scholarships and bursaries available in the fields of agriculture, land reform, and rural development, visit this link.
Conclusion
The DALRRD Bursary represents a significant opportunity for students dedicated to advancing their careers in agriculture, land reform, and rural development. By offering financial support and resources, DALRRD aims to empower the next generation of professionals who will drive positive change in these critical sectors. If you are passionate about contributing to South Africa’s agricultural and rural development, the DALRRD Bursary could be the key to achieving your academic and professional goals.
