As the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) grows its research capacity, it will have to simultaneously increase its postgraduate programmes, especially at Master’s and Doctoral levels. It is therefore one of the strategic goals of the University to grow and promote research, innovation, and postgraduate development, with a specific objective of postgraduate advancement and support. To this end, on 9 May 2025, the Research Office at SPU hosted a Postgraduate Funding Rally at which they showcased funding opportunities for the 2026 academic year.
In an environment where sourcing funding is often challenging due to limited resources, and it being highly competitive, postgraduate students must consider various options to fund their studies. At the Postgraduate Funding Rally different funders discussed their approaches to postgraduate funding and presented opportunities available through their organisations:
- A key priority of the Department of Higher Education and Training is to foster advanced research and innovation which is crucial for the country’s development.
- The core mission of the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholarship is to fund and connect excellent individuals to rebuild and sustain South Africa’s academic excellence and lead in South African society and beyond.
Mr Romney Veli from the Northern Cape Premier’s Office stressed the importance of utilising funding responsibly to strengthen research capacity growth, programmes, and ensuring long-term impact for both the province and the country. The National Research Fund’s Ms Celumusa Kunene stated that they support academic excellence and drive transformation, to empower future leaders that shape their communities.
