South Africa International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) Bursary

The South Africa International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) is inviting applications from eligible students for the Sindiswa Carol ‘Tu’ Nhlumayo Merit Bursary for the 2026 academic year. This bursary is designed to support Black female students pursuing maritime-related qualifications, helping them build successful careers in South Africa’s oceans economy.

About the SAIMI

The South Africa International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) was established in 2014 through a collaborative effort between the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) and Nelson Mandela University (NMU). It partners with universities, education authorities, maritime industry stakeholders, and government bodies across Africa.

SAIMI focuses on promoting the maritime sector, coordinating education and skills development, supporting research, and serving as a knowledge hub for maritime matters.

SAIMI Bursary Programme – Fields Covered

The bursary supports studies at undergraduate, honours, master’s, and PhD levels in maritime-related fields.

Undergraduate Qualifications Include:

• Animal Production (Aquaculture) – BSc
• Applied Geology – BSc
• Aquaculture – Certificate
• Environmental Sciences / Management – BSc
• Marine Engineering – BEng / BEng Tech
• Maritime Studies – Diploma / Advanced Diploma
• Oceanography – BSc
• Shipping and Logistics – Diploma / Advanced Diploma

Postgraduate Qualifications:

Honours & Masters:

• Aquatic Health, Marine Ecology, Maritime Law, Maritime Transport, Oceanography, Maritime Management, etc.

PhD:

• Applied Geology, Botany, Marine and Ship Surveying, Maritime Law, Microbiology, Oceanography, Shipping Law, Zoology, and Entomology.

Coverage Value & Benefits

The bursary provides:

• Full tuition fees
• Textbooks
• Subsidised accommodation and meal allowance
• Opportunities to attend SAIMI-hosted conferences and selected local maritime events
• Participation in organised maritime and science bodies

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Undergraduate Students:

• South African citizen
• Female from a previously disadvantaged group (Black African, Coloured, Indian)
• Currently in or completed Matric
• Minimum overall average of 70% (A and B symbols in Matric)
• Studying full-time at an accredited South African institution
• Parents earn between R350,000 – R600,000 per year

How to Apply

Download the relevant application form:

• Undergraduate, Honours, Master’s, or PhD – SAIMI Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf)

Prepare supporting documents, including:

• Certified copies of ID, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, proof of household income, motivational letter or research proposal.

Download and complete the relevant application form:

Undergraduate students: SAIMI Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf)
Honours or Master’s student: SAIMI Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf)
PhD students: SAIMI Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf)

Submit applications via email:

• Email: [email protected]
• Subject line: “SAIMI Bursary 2026”
• Submit in PDF format only.