The Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA) is calling on final-year BSc and BEng Chemical Engineering students and recent graduates to step forward and shape the future. Applications are now open for its 2026–2027 Master’s in Engineering Bursary and Research Programme.
With a focus on sustainability and innovation, the PAMSA bursary offers a two-year fully funded Master’s opportunity valued at R320,000. Successful candidates will undertake their studies at one of four leading South African institutions: Stellenbosch University, University of Johannesburg, North-West University, or the University of Pretoria.
“This is a unique opportunity for students to become part of a generation of chemical and process engineers that help shape a circular bioeconomy,” says PAMSA executive director Jane Molony. “The programme has been a career springboard for many young engineers over the past 15 years.”
The programme aims to harness young talent to further drive innovation in the pulp and paper sector, which relies on renewable wood fibre from sustainably managed plantations. Many of the industry’s products—including packaging, tissue, and dissolving wood pulp—are already contributing to a greener economy by integrating recycled materials and reducing environmental impact.
Molony says one of the programme’s standout features is the innovative research conducted by students. Projects have ranged from creating bio-ethanol from paper sludge to exploring lignin’s potential as an asphalt substitute or water purifier.
“Students are finding worth in what others might consider waste,” she says. “It’s the type of thinking that fuels progress in the circular bioeconomy.”
Applications are open now, with an early bird deadline of 6 June 2025, and final submissions due by 27 June 2025.
To learn more or apply, CLICK HERE
Terms, conditions and eligibility criteria apply.
