South Africa International Maritime Institute and Sindiswa Carol “Tu” Nhlumayo Merit Bursary 2026
The South Africa International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) is calling on eligible students to apply for the prestigious Sindiswa Carol ‘Tu’ Nhlumayo Merit Bursary for 2026. This opportunity is specifically designed to empower Black female students who aspire to build a career in South Africa’s rapidly growing ocean and maritime sectors.
Applications close on 5 December 2025 at 23:59, so students are encouraged to prepare their documents early to avoid last-minute delays.
Applications close on 5 December 2025 at 23:59, so students are encouraged to prepare their documents early to avoid last-minute delays.
Importance of the Carol Tu Nhlumayo Merit Bursary to South Africa
South Africa’s coastline stretches for more than 2,800 km, and its ocean economy holds massive potential—from fishing and tourism to shipping, energy, logistics, and marine science. Recognising this potential, SAIMI was launched in 2014 through a partnership between the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), Nelson Mandela University, and several other universities and maritime organisations.
The institute was established to foster the development of a robust, inclusive maritime industry capable of competing effectively on a global scale. One of SAIMI’s key goals is to develop skilled workers who can contribute to research, innovation, engineering, environmental protection, marine transport, and many other ocean-related fields.
The Sindiswa Carol ‘Tu’ Nhlumayo Merit Bursary plays a crucial role in that mission. It was created to honour the late Sindiswa Nhlumayo, a passionate advocate for maritime education and youth development. By focusing on Black female students, the bursary helps transform an industry that has historically lacked diversity, opening doors for young women who want to lead and shape the future of the marine sector.
Helpful Facts of the South Africa International Maritime Institute Bursary
| Bursary Name | Sindiswa Carol ‘Tu’ Nhlumayo Merit Bursary 2026 |
| Provider | South Africa International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) |
| Study Levels | Undergraduate, Honours, Master’s, PhD |
| Who Can Apply |
Black female South African students
|
| Fields Covered | Maritime, Engineering, Aquaculture, Environmental Sciences, Logistics, Geology, Marine Law, and more |
| Financial Cover | Tuition, textbooks, accommodation, meals, and access to events |
| Closing Date | 5 December 2025 |
| Submission Email |
Benefits from the Bursary
The South Africa International Maritime Institute aims to really assist qualified applicants. The assistance is comprehensive, enabling their studies well. Students selected for the 2026 bursary will receive comprehensive financial assistance, which includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Affordable student accommodation
- Meals
- Access to maritime-related workshops, conferences, and events
- Membership in marine and science organisations, which can help students build networks and grow their careers early
This bursary is ideal for students who are serious about their future and want support that goes beyond lectures and textbooks. Through SAIMI events and professional networks, recipients gain valuable exposure to the maritime industry, potential employers, and mentors who can help guide their career paths.
Important information
The SAIMI informs the applicants that the bursary does not cover old student debts or previously unpaid fees. Students should ensure their financial standing is clear before applying. Having no debt record could be a criterion for facilitating their bursary application.
Eligible Individuals
We know many students need our support; however, we cannot afford to support all applicants. To facilitate transparency in our operations, the bursary has specific requirements to ensure it reaches the intended beneficiaries. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Basic Requirements
- Female—Only women may apply.
- South African citizen with a valid SA ID.
- Belong to a disadvantaged group: Black African, Coloured, or Indian, as defined by the BEE Act of 2003.
- Full-time student at a registered South African university, TVET college, or university of technology.
- Household income between R350,000 and R600,000 per year, also known as the “missing middle.”
Required Academic Qualifications at Different Levels
For the Bachelor’s Program
- Must be in Grade 12 or already studying at a tertiary institution.
- Must be studying or accepted into a maritime-related program.
- Minimum 70% average for students already in university.
- A or B symbols in Matric for key subjects.
For Honours and Master’s Programs
- Must have already completed at least one full year of university studies.
- 70% average for undergraduate qualifications.
- 65% average for Honours results.
For the PhD Program
- Must have achieved 70% or above in a master’s program.
- Research must be directly related to the ocean, maritime sciences, or related fields.
Programs that Benefit from the Bursary
The South Africa International Maritime Institute bursary covers a wide range of programs. The bursary targets programs that have a significant impact on society. The bursary is open to a wide range of qualifications across the marine and environmental sectors.
The Bachelor’s and Diploma Programs
- Aquaculture
- Geology
- Marine Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Maritime Transport and Logistics
- Zoology and Entomology
- Various engineering disciplines
- Marine biology-related degrees
Honours Programs
- Oceanography
- Maritime Economics
- Marine Law
- Aquaculture
- Environmental Science
- Zoology and related fields
Masters Programs
- MSc in Applied Geology
- MSc Oceanography
- MBA with a maritime focus
- Maritime Law
- Maritime Management
- And other maritime-related business or science programs.
PhD Programs
- Oceanography
- Maritime Law
- Geology
- Microbiology
- Botany
- Marine science and related fields
The Needed Application Documents
Students need to submit the following documents:
| Certified South African ID | All applicants |
| Matric certificate / latest results | Undergraduate applicants |
| Academic transcript | Current university students |
| Acceptance or provisional acceptance letter | Undergraduate, Honours, Masters |
| Quotes for fees and textbooks | All applicants |
| Proof of household income | All |
| Motivational letter | 500 words (Undergraduate), 800 words (Honours/Masters), 800 words (PhD) |
Application Process to the South Africa International Maritime Institute Bursary 2026
- Download and complete the official SAIMI bursary application form from their website.
- Gather all required supporting documents.
- Email your full application to bursary@saimi.co.za.
- Use the subject line: SAIMI Bursary 2026.
- Make sure everything is submitted before 5 December 2025.
Preparing your documents early, proofreading your motivational letter, and double-checking attachments will significantly increase your chances of success. Take your time, consult elders, and read what the program is looking for to increase your chances of success.
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