The 2026 Rand Refinery bursary offers full funding for engineering students, including tuition, accommodation, books, laptop and stipend.
2026 Rand Refinery Bursary: A Fully Funded Opportunity for South African Students
2026 YES Learnership – Hungry Lion
About the Learnership
Hungry Lion is offering a 12-month YES Learnership starting in February 2026. This programme provides unemployed South African youth with practical workplace experience, workplace-readiness training, and the opportunity to gain essential administrative or warehouse-based skills. No previous work experience is required. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
What You Will Do
- Office administration and clerical tasks (data capturing, document management, workflow support)
- Assist with warehouse or logistics support (for warehouse placements)
- Participate in structured learning modules: digital literacy, communication, teamwork, workplace professionalism
- Support daily operations and team coordination
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens, aged 18–35 years :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Completed Matric / Grade 12 :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Never participated in a YES learnership before :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Willing to work in Stellenbosch (Head Office) or Kraaifontein (Warehouse) depending on placement :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Computer literate and able to commit full-time for 12 months
Required Documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified Matric certificate or results
How to Apply
Please send your full application (CV + certified ID + matric certificate) before 1 January 2026. Late/incomplete applications will not be considered. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Note: This is a 12-month learnership under the national YES programme. Monthly stipend provided according to YES standards. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Why Join?
- Gain real workplace experience — even if you have no prior work history
- Learn administrative, digital, communication and teamwork skills
- Build a stronger CV and chance for future employment
- Opportunity to work with a nationally recognized brand
Apply now and take the first step towards a career with Hungry Lion!
The 2026 Rand Refinery bursary is one of the most empowering study opportunities available to young South Africans who are passionate about engineering and emerging technologies. As one of the world’s largest integrated precious metals refineries, Rand Refinery continues to invest not only in the future of its business but also in the development of the country’s next generation of engineers, innovators, and industry leaders.
2026 Rand Refinery Bursary
About the Bursary
Rand Refinery is inviting applications for its 2026 bursary programme — offering fully funded and partial bursaries to qualifying South African students. The bursary aims to support studies in engineering and other priority fields, helping students cover costs and focus on their education. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
What the Bursary Covers
- Full tuition fees (for full bursary applications) :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Prescribed textbooks and required learning materials :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Stationery and academic tools (including a laptop for full bursary recipients) :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Accommodation support (where applicable) :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Monthly stipend / living allowance :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Fields of Study Supported
- Electrical Engineering :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Chemical Engineering :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Industrial Engineering :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Mechanical Engineering :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Robotics & Advanced Control / Advanced Automation Engineering :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Other eligible fields for partial bursary: Biotechnology, Information Technology, Environmental Studies, Accounting (CA-stream) etc. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- South African citizens aged between 18 and 25 years :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- Must be registered for 1st, 2nd or 3rd year of undergraduate study at a recognised South African university or university of technology :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
- For full bursaries: minimum overall academic average of 70% (or equivalent) required :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- For partial bursaries: lower aggregate requirement (e.g. 65%) may apply depending on field. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Required Documents
- Certified copy of South African ID :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
- Certified copy of Matric certificate (or equivalent) :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
- Proof of acceptance or registration at a recognised institution for the relevant course :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
- Latest academic transcript (if already in tertiary) for 1st/2nd/3rd-year applicants :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) & motivation / motivation letter (if required) :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
How to Apply
Submit your application online via the Rand Refinery official bursary application portal before 20 December 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
Note: Rand Refinery bursaries are competitive — make sure you meet all eligibility criteria and attach all required certified documents. Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Why Apply?
- Full financial support covering tuition, living costs, and accommodation — allowing you to focus on your studies. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
- Support in scarce engineering and technical skills that are in high demand in the metals, refining, and industrial sectors. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
- Potential exposure to real-world refining and engineering environments, enhancing employability after graduation. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
Apply now and give yourself the chance for a fully funded tertiary education with Rand Refinery!
This bursary programme is more than just financial assistance—it is a life-changing stepping stone designed to open doors, provide stability, and enable students to excel in demanding fields of study. For many young people, access to quality education remains a major challenge. Rand Refinery aims to break those barriers by offering a fully funded bursary that supports both academic and personal success.
In this article, openlearnership.co.za provides a complete guide to the Rand Refinery bursary, supported qualifications, eligibility requirements, benefits, and inspiring success stories to motivate future applicants.
About the Rand Refinery Bursary Programme
Rand Refinery (Pty) Limited, based in the East Rand, is recognized globally for excellence in precious metal refining. The company plays a crucial role in South Africa’s mining and manufacturing sector and places strong emphasis on education and youth empowerment.
To support the country’s skills development goals, Rand Refinery offers a full bursary to deserving students pursuing qualifications in high-demand engineering fields. The programme selects young, motivated individuals and invests in their growth throughout their academic journey.
The bursary, listed under reference RRBURSARY2026, offers 12 available positions for South African students who meet the eligibility criteria.
Supported Qualifications
The 2026 Rand Refinery bursary focuses on critical and scarce skills. Students pursuing the following qualifications may apply:
- Electrical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Robotics and Advanced Control
- Mechanical Engineering
These fields are essential for modern industry and align with Rand Refinery’s goal of contributing to a technically skilled workforce capable of driving innovation.
What the Fully Funded Bursary Covers
One of the strongest features of this programme is its fully funded structure. Successful applicants receive support that covers all major academic and living costs, including:
✔ Full Tuition Fees
All academic fees at a recognized South African university or university of technology are paid in full.
✔ Compulsory Prescribed Books
Students receive all the essential study materials required for their modules.
✔ Stationery and a Laptop
To support digital learning and academic productivity, the bursary includes a laptop and study tools.
✔ Monthly Stipend
The stipend helps students manage transport, meals, and other personal expenses.
✔ Accommodation
Rand Refinery ensures that students have safe, reliable living arrangements that support focused learning.
This holistic financial coverage ensures that students are not burdened by financial stress and can dedicate themselves fully to their studies.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2026 Rand Refinery bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must be between 18 and 25 years old.
- Must be in first, second, or third year of study at a recognized South African institution of higher learning (universities or universities of technology).
- Must have achieved a minimum aggregate of 70% in their latest academic results.
- Applicants must submit all required supporting documents, such as certified ID copies, academic transcripts, proof of registration, and motivational letters.
This ensures the bursary supports hardworking, ambitious, and deserving students.
Why the 2026 Rand Refinery Bursary Matters
South Africa faces a shortage of graduates in engineering and technological fields. Many talented students are unable to continue their studies due to financial constraints. The 2026 Rand Refinery bursary contributes directly to:
- Skills development in critical engineering sectors
- Youth empowerment and employment readiness
- Increased participation in STEM careers
- Improved diversity and inclusion within engineering industries
By investing in education, Rand Refinery helps build a stronger and more innovative South Africa.
Success Stories from Previous Rand Refinery Bursary Recipients
Over the years, Rand Refinery has supported numerous young South Africans who have gone on to build successful careers. While specific individual names are often kept private to protect applicants, consistent patterns stand out across success stories:
⭐ From Rural Background to Engineering Graduate
Many recipients have shared how the bursary allowed them to pursue engineering degrees that would otherwise have been financially impossible. With accommodation, laptops, and stipends provided, students were able to focus on their studies and ultimately graduate with strong results.
⭐ Internship and Employment Pathways
Some bursary students were offered internship opportunities with Rand Refinery after completing their studies. These internships often serve as a stepping stone into permanent roles within the manufacturing and engineering sectors.
⭐ Women in Engineering Empowerment
The bursary has helped increase the participation of young women in engineering fields such as Mechanical and Chemical Engineering. This aligns with national goals to promote gender equity in STEM careers.
⭐ Leadership and Innovation Success
Former recipients have taken leadership positions in industries such as mining, automation, and industrial manufacturing. Several have credited the bursary for providing not only financial support but also mentorship and professional exposure.
These success stories show that the 2026 Rand Refinery bursary is more than academic funding—it is a pathway to a stable and impactful career.
How to Apply
Students interested in the 2026 Rand Refinery bursary are encouraged to prepare their documents early:
Required Documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Academic record showing 70% average
- Proof of acceptance or registration
- Motivational letter
- Updated CV
Applicants should ensure all documents are clear, up to date, and correctly labeled before submitting.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Rand Refinery bursary is an exceptional opportunity for young South Africans pursuing careers in engineering and technology. With full financial support, mentorship potential, and a strong industry reputation, this bursary gives students the resources and confidence needed to succeed academically and professionally.
If you are a hardworking student between 18 and 25 with a strong academic record, this is your moment to take a step toward a brighter future.
openlearnership.co.za Disclaimer
openlearnership.co.za is an information-sharing platform that publishes learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job opportunities for educational purposes only. We are not responsible for the recruitment process and do not influence selections. Always apply directly through the official channels provided by the hiring or funding institution.
https://openlearnership.co.za/discover-open-2026-bursaries-now-open-for-south-african-youth/
Mkhize Yolanda is the creator of Open Learnership, a platform dedicated to helping South Africans find reliable learnerships, internships, and career opportunities. She is passionate about youth development and aims to make education and employment resources more accessible to everyone.
Contact:
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