SAAFoST Brian Koeppen Memorial Scholarship

The SAAFoST Brian Koeppen Memorial Scholarship is a prestigious postgraduate award in South Africa created to honour the late Professor Brian Koeppen, a respected Head of the Department of Food Science at Stellenbosch University. This scholarship is offered by the South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) Foundation and aims to support students who are advancing their studies in food science or food technology at the Master’s or Doctorate level. It stands as a meaningful way to recognise academic excellence, encourage research and support future leaders in the food sector.

What the Scholarship Offers

Each year, the SAAFoST Foundation awards two scholarships, one for a Master’s degree student and one for a Doctoral candidate. Each scholarship is valued at R35 000 per year and is intended to contribute towards tuition fees for the respective postgraduate programme.

If a student already receives financial support that fully covers tuition, the scholarship funds can be applied to other educational needs such as study materials, research costs, academic conferences, or study visits, but only with prior written approval from the SAAFoST Foundation.

Eligible Students and Institutions

Only students who are registered for at least one year in an eligible postgraduate programme and whose academic work aligns with food science or food technology can be considered. To qualify, applicants must be either South African citizens or permanent residents. They must also have maintained active membership with SAAFoST for at least one year prior to nomination.

Notably, students cannot apply directly for this scholarship on their own. Instead, only tertiary institutions listed by SAAFoST — including departments of food science and food technology at universities such as the University of Stellenbosch, University of Pretoria, University of Venda, University of the Free State, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Durban University of Technology, Tshwane University of Technology, and the University of Johannesburg — may nominate candidates. Each department is permitted to nominate one student each year based on academic performance and research potential.

Application Requirements

Departments that nominate students must submit a completed nomination form along with supporting documents to the SAAFoST Membership Development Officer by the scholarship deadline, which for the 2026 academic year is 27 February 2026. Submitted documentation should include a research project proposal, academic records from previous degree studies, proof of registration in the current postgraduate programme, evidence of SAAFoST membership, and information about any other bursaries or financial support the student is receiving.

Why This Scholarship Is Important

The Brian Koeppen Memorial Scholarship not only honours the legacy of an influential academic but also promotes excellence in research and study within the food science and technology fields. By supporting postgraduate students who are deeply engaged in advanced study and research, the scholarship helps develop future professionals who can contribute to innovation, improved food systems, and scientific advancement in South Africa’s food industry.

If you are considering further study in food science or food technology and meet the criteria, it is worth speaking with your department head to explore possible nomination for this respected award.