Students say receiving the MQA bursary has made a meaningful difference in their lives. Photo: Lebohang Mathaba
By Malatji Monyelegwete – malatji.monyelegwete@ul.ac.za
The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) continues to alleviate the financial burden for students at the University of Limpopo (UL)
Currently, MQA is supporting 39 students with study bursaries pursuing studies in the mining and minerals sector, as well as in health sciences
This year, the MQA has awarded bursaries to 18 new first-time recipients and 31 continuing students. The bursaries allow recipients to focus entirely on their studies, alleviating financial concerns. They cover full tuition and registration fees, residence fees or private accommodation allowances, books, meals, and a semester allowance per bursar, where applicable.
Although the MQA also funds students in health sciences, Bursary Officer, Diiteleni Tshisevhe, explained that the MQA Bursary Scheme was established to increase the number of students pursuing careers in the mining and minerals sector. “The MQA bursary is available to students enrolled at universities, TVET colleges, and universities of technology,” he emphasised.
Ashley Machimana, an MSc Geography and Environmental Studies student, has been receiving funding from MQA since 2024. Photo: Lebohang Mathaba
Ashley Machimana, a Master’s student in Geography and Environmental Studies, described the MQA bursary as a great opportunity, especially as she comes from a disadvantaged background, with both parents being pensioners. “This bursary has made my academic journey smoother, allowing me to focus on my studies without worrying about who will pay my fees at the end of the academic year. My goal is to graduate with distinctions in order to enhance my employment chances,” she said.
Thabo Kgarabjang, a PhD student in Geology, states that the bursary funding will enable him to conduct fieldwork essential for compiling a comprehensive research study. Photo: Lebohang Mathaba
Thabo Kgarabjang, a PhD student in the Department of Mining and Geology, expressed his gratitude for the bursary, which has significantly reduced both his financial and academic pressures. “In a country where funding opportunities for postgraduate studies are scarce, MQA’s support came at a crucial time. This will enable me to complete my research and visit the necessary areas to conduct my fieldwork,” he explained.
Tsumbo Mulaudzi, a second-year Bachelor of Pharmacy student, recognises the significance of the MQA bursary as he begins his second year of funding. Photo: Lebohang Mathaba
Tsumbo Mulaudzi, a second-year Bachelor of Pharmacy student, also shared his appreciation, describing the MQA bursary as a “blessing in disguise.” He stated that the financial relief has allowed him to concentrate fully on his studies and his ambition to become “one of the top pharmacists produced by UL, a university renowned for its strong academic legacy in the field.”