Hortgro 2026 South Africa Bursary – Now Open for Applications
About the Bursary Provider – Hortgro
Hortgro’s history dates back to 1652, when the first apple seeds were planted by Jan van Riebeeck in the Cape of Good Hope. Today, the organisation focuses on research and technology, production, transformation, markets, and communication in the deciduous fruit industry.
Its main goal is to guide and direct research to address both short- and long-term industry needs. Hortgro’s members include the Dried Fruit Technical Services (DFTS), SA Stone Fruit Producers’ Association (SASPA), and SA Apple and Pear Producers’ Association (SAAPPA).
Fields Covered by the Hortgro Bursary Programme
Applications are invited for the 2026 academic year in the following fields:
- Agri-Management
- Agricultural Biotechnology
- Agricultural Economics
- Agricultural Science
- Entomology
- Horticulture (Production/Post-harvest)
- Marketing Specialist
- Microbiology
- Plant Pathology
- Project Management
- Soil and Water Science
Hortgro supports the agricultural sector by helping deciduous fruit growers produce, market, and sell high-quality produce. One way it achieves this is through its annual bursary programme.
Bursary Expectations, Renewal, and Selection
Recipients are required to:
- Provide quarterly updates on studies and general well-being
- Submit academic results each semester
- Maintain good conduct
- Attend Hortgro functions
The bursary is renewable annually, based on satisfactory academic performance.
Students will also have access to a mentor for guidance.
Final selection is made by a committee after shortlisting.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Have completed Matric or be in Matric in 2025
- Be studying or intending to study in one of the listed fields in 2026
- Be registered or intending to register at a recognised South African tertiary institution
- Meet admission requirements for the chosen course
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted online at: Hortgro Bursary Application 2026
Applicants are also encouraged to download and read the Hortgro Bursary Brochure (.pdf)
Supporting Documents (certified where required):
- ID document or both sides of the ID card
- Matric certificate or latest Matric results
- Latest tertiary academic record (if applicable)
- Proof of tertiary registration
- Estimated breakdown of study fees (tuition, books, accommodation)
- Parents/guardians’ ID documents
- Parents/guardians’ proof of income (payslips or affidavit)
- Proof of other financial assistance, bursaries, or loans (if applicable)
- Essay covering personal background, career plans, future role in agriculture, and reasons for applying (handwritten on application form)
- Two contactable references
Closing Date: 15 August 2025
(Applications after this date will not be considered.)
Contact Hortgro
Tel: 021 870 2900
Email: learn@hortgro.co.za