Meta Description:
The Meat Industry Trust (MIT) is inviting South African postgraduate students to apply for the 2026 MIT Bursary Programme. Valued up to R180,000, this bursary supports Master’s and Doctorate research that advances the red meat industry. Applications close on 31 October 2025.
Now Accepting Applications: Meat Industry Trust (MIT) Bursaries 2026
The Meat Industry Trust (MIT) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Bursary Programme, offering a remarkable opportunity for South African postgraduate students pursuing Master’s or Doctorate degrees in fields that contribute to the growth and sustainability of the red meat industry.
If you are passionate about research that improves the quality, safety, and sustainability of South Africa’s cattle, sheep, or goat sectors, this bursary could be the stepping stone to your academic and professional advancement.
Overview of the MIT Bursary Programme
Bursary Name: Meat Industry Trust (MIT) Postgraduate Bursary
Academic Year: 2026
Application Closing Date: 31 October 2025
Location: South Africa (any recognised and accredited tertiary institution)
Study Level: Master’s or Doctorate (PhD)
Eligible Fields: Research related to cattle, sheep, or goats
Bursary Value: Up to R180,000 (depending on study level)
About the Meat Industry Trust (MIT)
The Meat Industry Trust was established to promote scientific research that enhances the productivity, efficiency, and sustainability of South Africa’s red meat sector. By supporting postgraduate students, MIT aims to build a new generation of agricultural scientists, veterinarians, and researchers who can solve real-world challenges facing the red meat industry.
Through this bursary, MIT invests in innovative research that contributes to:
- Sustainable livestock production systems.
- Improved food safety and product quality.
- Enhanced animal welfare and disease control.
- Reduced environmental impact and carbon footprint.
This initiative helps bridge the gap between academic research and industry application — ensuring that cutting-edge science benefits farmers, consumers, and the economy.
Fields of Study Covered
The MIT Bursary focuses on research areas that have a direct impact on the red meat value chain, covering cattle, sheep, and goats. Eligible study fields include:
| Category | Research Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Consumer / Economics / Marketing | Market trends, consumer behaviour, value chain efficiency |
| Environment / Climate / Carbon Footprint | Sustainable farming, emissions reduction, environmental management |
| Genetics / Genomics / Breeding | Animal improvement, genetic diversity, breeding technologies |
| Health / Disease Control / Pharmacology / Toxicology / Welfare | Animal health, disease prevention, veterinary sciences |
| Hygiene / Product Safety / Quality / Food Safety | Meat safety standards, product hygiene, food science |
| Livestock Nutrition | Feed formulation, nutrient utilization, pasture management |
| Meat Science / Nutritional Value | Meat composition, nutritional analysis, product development |
| Physiology / Growth / Reproduction | Animal growth, reproduction, performance efficiency |
| Production Systems / Efficiency / Management | Farm systems optimization, resource management |
| Rangeland / Pasture / Forages / Water | Grazing management, water conservation, forage productivity |
| Socio-economic Aspects of the Red Meat Industry | Rural livelihoods, economic sustainability, labour issues |
| Transition Agriculture in Livestock Production | Adaptation to climate and market changes |
| Waste Management and Utilization | Environmental impact reduction, recycling of agricultural by-products |
Bursary Value and Duration
The Meat Industry Trust offers generous funding to cover tuition, research costs, and study-related expenses.
| Study Level | Annual Value | Total Duration | Maximum Total Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master’s Degree | R60,000 per year | 2 years | R120,000 |
| Doctorate (PhD) | R60,000 per year | 3 years | R180,000 |
Payment Structure:
- Funds are paid directly to the university in two instalments per year.
- First payment is made after proof of registration.
- Second payment follows a progress report from the supervisor confirming satisfactory performance.
Renewal Conditions:
- Renewal is subject to annual academic progress and re-registration.
- Bursary holders must submit:
- An annual progress report, and
- A final report after completion of studies.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered:
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
- Registration: Must qualify for Master’s or Doctorate registration in 2026.
- Study Commitment: Must intend to study full-time at a recognised and accredited South African tertiary institution.
- Employment Status: Must not be employed while holding the bursary.
- Field of Study: Research must focus on red meat species (cattle, sheep, or goats) in one of the eligible research areas.
- Declaration: Applicants must agree to the bursary’s terms and disclose any other bursary funding received.
Qualification-Specific Requirements:
| Study Level | Minimum Qualification |
|---|---|
| Master’s Applicants | BSc Honours or BSc (Agric), registered with SAQA, or equivalent qualification approved by SACNASP or SAVC |
| Doctorate Applicants | Master’s degree registered with SAQA or equivalent |
How to Apply
Follow the three-step process carefully to ensure your application is considered.
Step 1: Download the Application Form
Access and complete the official Meat Industry Trust Bursary Application Form from the MIT website.
Step 2: Submit Online
Apply online at: https://www.meatindustrytrust.org/studentbursaryapplication
Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents
Prepare and upload the following certified documents (in PDF format):
- Completed and signed application form
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of all tertiary qualifications
- Full academic transcript for each qualification
- Proof of registration (if available)
Selection Process
All applications will be reviewed by the Bursary Working Committee (BWC), which will evaluate submissions based on:
- Academic excellence
- Quality and scientific merit of the proposed research
- Relevance of the project to the red meat industry’s goals
Successful applicants will be notified directly by MIT after the selection process.
Please note: The Meat Industry Trust reserves the right to make the final decision regarding bursary awards.
Important Dates and Notes
- Applications Close: 31 October 2025
- Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Decisions made by the MIT are final and binding.
Ensure that all documents are clear, valid, and certified. Incorrect or incomplete submissions will automatically be disqualified.
Why Apply for the MIT Bursary?
The Meat Industry Trust Bursary stands out as one of South Africa’s most scientifically focused funding programmes for postgraduate students in agriculture and animal sciences.
Here’s why it’s worth applying:
- Strong Industry Relevance – Your research will directly contribute to improving national livestock production and sustainability.
- Financial Stability – The bursary covers essential academic expenses for up to three years.
- Academic Growth – You’ll be encouraged to pursue high-impact research supported by experts in the red meat sector.
- Networking Opportunities – Access to a network of researchers, industry stakeholders, and agricultural professionals.
- Positive Career Prospects – Graduates often advance into leadership roles in academia, government, or the red meat industry.
Application Tips for Success
- Start your application early — gather your documents and references ahead of time.
- Align your research proposal with MIT’s strategic priorities, focusing on red meat innovation and sustainability.
- Ensure all documents are certified and legible.
- Proofread your application to avoid mistakes.
- Submit before 31 October 2025 to avoid disqualification.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary Name | Meat Industry Trust (MIT) Bursary 2026 |
| Study Levels | Master’s and Doctorate (PhD) |
| Fields of Study | Research related to cattle, sheep, or goats |
| Value | R60,000 per annum (up to R180,000 total) |
| Application Closing Date | 31 October 2025 |
| Application Link | https://www.meatindustrytrust.org/studentbursaryapplication |
| Eligibility | South African citizens, full-time postgraduate students |
| Selection Criteria | Academic record, research quality, contribution to red meat industry |
| Contact | Meat Industry Trust – via official website |
| Payment Method | Paid directly to the university in two instalments per year |
Final Thoughts
The Meat Industry Trust (MIT) Bursary Programme for 2026 offers more than just financial support — it’s an investment in South Africa’s agricultural innovation. Through this initiative, MIT empowers young researchers to make meaningful contributions to food security, environmental sustainability, and livestock welfare.
If you’re passionate about science, sustainability, and the red meat sector, don’t miss this opportunity. Prepare your documents, craft a compelling research proposal, and apply online before 31 October 2025.
Your research could help shape the future of South Africa’s red meat industry.
