Matriculants residing in the Northern Cape, one of South Africa’s most impoverished regions, have an opportunity to further their academic aspirations thanks to a bursary programme offered by Mulilo.
Since inception 50 candidates have graduated from the programme and these include teachers, lawyers, medical doctors and engineers to name a few. Importantly the programme is also available to those pursuing a technical career through accredited Technikons and TVET colleges. At the moment there are 118 tertiary students at various phases of their academic journey.
‘There is a massive skills shortage in the country,’ says Mulilo chief executive Johnny Cullum. ‘The bursary scheme is designed to provide tertiary study opportunities from people in the communities in which we operate. Hopefully, in some instances, with skills that we can use in our operations.’
Mulilo is one of South Africa’s leading renewable energy developers and investors. The company has a total of 420MW of installed generating capacity comprising both wind and solar photovoltaic technologies.
Mulilo has been a leading competitor in South Africa’s REIPPP programme since its inception, with two solar PV projects under Round 1, two Solar PV projects and two wind projects under Round 3 all operational. Our success has continued with two major projects awarded under RMIPPPP and another for Round 5.
Candidates for the bursary programme must meet specific criteria: they must be South African citizens, reside in the Northern Cape, be 35 years or younger and have made application to a local tertiary institution. The bursary includes tuition, textbook allowance, and a monthly stipend for the duration of successful studies.
‘Critical to the positive outcome of the programme is the provision of mentoring and counselling services to the successful candidates while on their academic journey,’ adds Johnny. ‘For many students the move to an academic institution kilometres away is their first time away from home, adapting to campus life can be challenging. And that’s where we provide additional assistance, ensuring the balance between study and play is correct.’
Applications open in August and close in October for placement in January of the following year. Visit the Mulilo website for more information and submission details.