Martin & East Gap Year and Bursary South Africa 2026 – 2027

The Martin & East Gap Year and Bursary Programme, organised by Martin & East (Pty) Ltd in South Africa, provides a unique pathway for talented Grade 12 students to gain practical experience and financial support in the field of civil engineering and construction management. This initiative empowers school leavers by combining a structured gap year placement with the opportunity to secure a tertiary bursary, helping bridge the transition from secondary education to professional study.

Martin & East is an established civil engineering and construction firm with a long history of delivering infrastructure projects across South Africa. Its youth development efforts are aimed at nurturing the next generation of engineers and construction professionals.

Fields of Study Supported

The programme is designed specifically for students aiming to enter civil engineering or construction management disciplines. The first component is a gap year placement in the construction sector in 2026, followed by a bursary award in 2027 for those accepted into reputable tertiary engineering or construction management programmes.

Successful participants may study fields such as Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Civil), Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Civil Engineering or Diploma in Civil Engineering at recognised South African institutions.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered, applicants must satisfy the following requirements:

They must be South African citizens currently enrolled in Grade 12 during 2025 and intending to complete Matric that year. They must achieve at least 60% in Pure Mathematics, Mathematics Literacy or Technical Mathematics and Physical Science.

Candidates must express their intention to pursue civil engineering studies in 2027. Preference is given to applicants from historically disadvantaged communities and those demonstrating clear motivation and future potential in the industry.

What the Programme Offers

Participants are placed in a paid gap year programme during 2026, where they receive hands‑on training in various areas of construction and civil engineering. This includes exposure to road construction and maintenance, trenchless solutions, earthworks, landfills, services pipelines, bridges and concrete structures, synthetic field installations, erosion control and project supervision.

The programme also provides mentorship, soft skills training and a monthly stipend to assist with transport and living expenses during the gap year.

After the gap year, high performers may receive a bursary for the 2027 academic year to study civil engineering or construction management at institutions such as the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, University of Pretoria, Nelson Mandela University or CPUT. Bursary selections are based on overall performance during the gap year and acceptance into an approved tertiary programme.

Selection and Assessment

Participants are assessed throughout the gap year on their performance at work sites and in a professional environment. Selection for the bursary is determined by a committee that evaluates both site performance and future academic plans.

Final decisions are made internally by Martin & East or their appointed selection panel. There is no formal appeals process once decisions are conveyed.

Obligations for Successful Recipients

Gap year participants must fully engage in the professional learnership, maintain strong work ethics and meet performance expectations. Those awarded bursaries are expected to enrol in their civil engineering or construction management programmes in 2027 and maintain academic progress.

Continued mentorship and support may be extended during tertiary studies, with the expectation that recipients uphold the standards demonstrated during the gap year period.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit their Grade 12 results (June 2025), curriculum vitae, a motivational letter and a certified copy of their South African identity document via email. The email should be addressed to Martin & East, specifying the subject for Scholar Recruitment 2026.

A CV should include contact information and academic achievements. The motivational letter should outline career goals, interest in civil engineering and reasons for seeking the gap year opportunity.

Closing Date and Timeline

The gap year programme begins in 2026 for current Grade 12 learners in 2025. Applications close on 31 October 2025. Any applications received after the deadline are not considered.

Successful applicants are informed after processing is complete. Those who do not receive a response should consider their application unsuccessful.

Final Thoughts

The Martin & East Gap Year and Bursary Programme offers a valuable opportunity for dedicated matriculants hoping to pursue civil engineering careers. Combining practical learning, professional development and potential bursary funding, it serves as a powerful springboard into tertiary study and the construction industry. If you are motivated, academically strong and interested in construction or engineering, this programme could open critical pathways in your career journey.