Imerys Refractory Minerals South Africa (IRM SA) has officially launched its 2026 Skills Development Bursary Programme, offering a valuable opportunity for young people in and around Mashishini, Lydenburg, as well as IRM employees and their dependants. The bursary supports undergraduate studies in critical mining-sector disciplines, reinforcing IRM’s commitment to social upliftment, talent development, and long-term community investment.
What the IRM Bursary Covers
The bursary is designed to fund full-time undergraduate degree and diploma studies in a range of high-demand, mining-aligned disciplines. It emphasizes fields that are essential to Imerys’ operations and the broader South African minerals sector.
Fields of Study Supported Include:
- Core Mining-Technical Disciplines: Chemistry, Production, Metallurgy, Geology, Engineering, Environmental Science, Health and Safety.
- Mining-Aligned Business Disciplines: Accounting, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Human Resources, and similar fields that support mining operations.
This broad coverage reflects IRM SA’s strategy to build a deep and versatile talent pipeline — not only technical specialists but also professionals who can support mining business operations.
Who Is Eligible to Apply
The bursary is open to three main applicant groups:
- IRM SA employees
- Dependants or children of IRM employees
- Community members of the local area (with preference given to individuals from Mashishini, Lydenburg)
While all eligible groups are welcome to apply, IRM SA has made clear that preference will be given to those from the local community, in order to invest meaningfully in its host region.
Important Conditions & Selection Criteria
- Applying does not guarantee funding — all applications go through a rigorous selection process.
- The Skills Development Committee at IRM SA reviews and finalises decisions. Their determination is final and binding.
- Because this forms part of IRM’s skills development strategy, sponsorship depends on business need, available funding, and compliance with development goals.
- Work-back or experiential learning may be required. Some recipients — especially dependants or community members — may need to complete practical training or serve in a work-back capacity once their studies conclude.
Documents You Must Submit
To make sure your application is eligible, you must include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) — Summarise your academic history, extracurriculars, and any relevant work or volunteer experience.
- Motivational Letter — Explain your passion for your field of study, your career goals, and how the bursary will support you.
- Proof of Residence — This can be a municipal statement, lease document, or another official confirmation of address.
- Proof of University Application or Acceptance (2026) — You must show that you have applied to or have been accepted at a tertiary institution.
- Fee Statement or Estimate for 2026 — A cost breakdown from your university or college is required.
- Academic Records — Include your matric certificate (or equivalent) and your most recent academic results.
- Certified Copy of ID — A legally certified copy of your identity document.
Applications missing any of these items may not be considered.
How to Apply
To apply, compile all required documents into one submission and send them via email to:
Useful Links:
Make sure your subject line clearly states your name and “2026 Skills Development Bursary Application.” Submissions must be received by 29 November 2025 — late applications will not be accepted.
Why This Bursary Is Significant
Strengthening Local Communities
By prioritising applicants from Mashishini, Lydenburg, IRM SA is investing directly in the region where it operates. This kind of targeted support helps build a legacy of opportunity and upliftment.
Closing Critical Skills Gaps
Mining and mineral-processing industries in South Africa face ongoing shortages of highly skilled technical professionals. By funding studies in chemistry, metallurgy, engineering, geology, and related disciplines, IRM helps to fill these gaps.
Promoting Sustainable Talent Pipelines
Graduates supported by this bursary can go on to work for IRM or other employers in the mining value chain. This helps ensure that local and national industries have a steady, well-trained workforce.
Supporting First-Generation and Under-Resourced Students
Many young people in disadvantaged communities lack access to higher education because of financial constraints. The bursary offers a pathway to tertiary education that might otherwise be out of reach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do I need to work for IRM SA after my degree?
A: Not necessarily. Some bursary recipients may be required to complete experiential learning (work-back) under IRM’s supervision, depending on the terms of their funding.
Q2: I’m studying Business (Logistics/HR). Am I eligible?
A: Yes. IRM encourages applications from students in business-related fields that support mining operations, such as logistics, supply chain, accounting, and human resources.
Q3: I don’t yet have a university acceptance letter — can I still apply?
A: Yes. You must provide proof of application to a recognized tertiary institution and submit all other required documents.
Q4: What happens if my application is incomplete?
A: Applications that lack any of the required documents — including CV, ID, academic records — may be rejected before evaluation.
Q5: Is preference given to people from Mashishini, or can anyone apply?
A: Anyone from the eligible groups can apply, but preference is given to applicants from Mashishini, Lydenburg, in alignment with IRM SA’s community empowerment goals.
Q6: Will this bursary cover all my tuition?
A: The bursary supports tuition and related higher education costs, but the total funding amount depends on available resources and IRM’s internal decisions. Applicants are required to submit a 2026 fee estimate.
Final Thoughts
The IRM SA 2026 Skills Development Bursary is a powerful vehicle for change — offering critical financial support, building technical capacity, and strengthening local communities. For students seeking a pathway into the mining and minerals sector, this bursary is an ideal springboard.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, gather your documents now, and submit your application before 29 November 2025.
