By Gofaone Motsamai and Phenyo Mokgothu
A partnership with the common goal of producing researchers ready to respond to the needs of society has unlocked full bursaries for nine postgraduate chemistry students from the North-West University (NWU). This is one of the results of the ongoing partnership between the university and the Sasol Foundation.
The scholarships, awarded under the National Research Foundation-Sasol Foundation Scholarship Programme, are for the 2025 academic year and were confirmed during a visit to the Mahikeng Campus.
The programme will support three honours, five master’s and one PhD student. Its broader aim is to bolster the number of science researchers from historically disadvantaged universities, as well as black and female scientists and those living with disabilities.
Since inception, the scholarship programme has sponsored over 400 postgraduate students, a number of whom have received continuous funding from honours through to doctoral level.
Prof Zimbili Zondi, head of the subject group Chemistry, said these awards reflect the value of strategic partnerships in higher education.
“This is not just about funding degrees. It is about building careers and sharpening scientific minds to tackle real-world problems.”
She added that support from the Sasol Foundation is aligned with the department’s goal of producing researchers who are ready to respond to the needs of society.
“When students interact with industry, they begin to see where their knowledge fits into society and how they can lead change through research,” she said.
Dr Bulelwa Keke, portfolio manager for tertiary education at Sasol, said that this is more than funding education.
“The NWU is developing an environment where knowledge and innovation can take root. Through this initiative we are not only empowering individuals, but also shaping a more inclusive, sustainable and equitable future for all.”
A record of growing support and impact
Four students supported by the programme have secured internships at Sasol, further strengthening the connection between academic study and work experience. Of these, two have since received permanent appointments as scientists.
The Sasol Foundation has continued to support the NWU’s postgraduate development. In previous visits to the Mahikeng Campus in 2022 and 2023, the Foundation reaffirmed its focus on strengthening research capacity through scholarships, mentorship and the donation of research equipment.
Nine postgraduate chemistry students from the NWU received full bursaries from the National Research Foundation-Sasol Foundation Scholarship Programme.