The South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) proudly administers the Sindiswa Carol ‘Tu’ Nhlumayo Merit Bursary, an initiative designed to advance the participation of young Black women in maritime-related studies. This bursary supports undergraduate and postgraduate students who demonstrate academic potential, leadership, and a commitment to contributing to South Africa’s oceans economy. Applications for the 2025 academic cycle close on 05 December 2025.
Honouring a Legacy of Leadership and Impact
The bursary is named in honour of Ms Sindiswa Carol Nhlumayo, a trailblazing maritime leader whose influence significantly shaped South Africa’s maritime skills development landscape. As the Executive Head of the Centre for Maritime Excellence at the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), Ms Nhlumayo played a pivotal role in strengthening human capacity, research, and innovation within the maritime sector.
Her work focused on creating opportunities for youth, expanding access to maritime training, and showcasing career and business pathways within coastal and inland waterway economies. One of her most notable achievements was the implementation of the National Cadet Programme, which included pioneering training for cadets aboard the Dedicated Training Vessel SA Agulhas. Through this programme and her broader initiatives, she inspired thousands of young people to consider careers across the maritime value chain.
Ms Nhlumayo’s contributions earned national and institutional recognition. She received the IPM Business Leader of the Year Award in 2015, the Oliver Empowerment Award for Best Female Public Servant in 2013, and an accolade from the University of KwaZulu-Natal for being an outstanding alumnus. Her legacy continues through this merit bursary, which seeks to cultivate the next generation of women leaders in maritime science, research, technology, and industry.
Purpose and Vision of the Bursary
The Sindiswa Carol ‘Tu’ Nhlumayo Merit Bursary aims to break barriers for young women from historically disadvantaged groups by enabling them to pursue qualifications in maritime-related disciplines. Through financial and developmental support, the bursary helps recipients excel academically while gaining access to professional networks, mentoring, and industry exposure.
SAIMI envisions a maritime sector that is inclusive, equitable, and driven by skilled young professionals. By investing in women’s education and leadership, the bursary supports national goals of transforming and expanding South Africa’s oceans economy, strengthening the country’s capacity in areas such as maritime engineering, ocean sciences, logistics, marine conservation, shipping operations, and marine technology.
What the Bursary Covers
The bursary offers comprehensive support to ensure that students can fully focus on their studies and professional development. Benefits include:
- Full academic bursary, covering tuition fees and essential textbooks.
- Subsidised accommodation and meal allowances, determined in line with National Skills Fund (NSF) guidelines.
- Opportunities to attend SAIMI-hosted conferences and selected maritime events across South Africa.
- Access to organised professional bodies, including the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association South Africa (WISTA-SA) and other networks supporting women in maritime and science.
These components are designed not only to provide financial relief but also to empower beneficiaries with visibility, mentorship, and community support—key factors in fostering leadership in maritime sectors.
Eligibility and Application Process
Women who wish to pursue undergraduate, honours, master’s, or PhD studies in maritime-linked fields are encouraged to apply. SAIMI is committed to accessibility and transformation, ensuring that talented women from diverse backgrounds have equal opportunities to contribute to the ocean economy.
Applicants must complete the relevant application form based on their level of study:
- Undergraduate Application Form
- Honours and Masters Application Form
- PhD Application Form
Detailed guidelines, qualification lists, and requirements are included in the downloadable forms. All completed applications must be submitted by 05 December 2025.
Supporting Women in Maritime
Beyond financial assistance, the bursary programme enables recipients to join professional communities that advocate for women in maritime. SAIMI collaborates with industry organisations, academic institutions, and government bodies to create platforms where bursary holders can access mentorship, internships, research opportunities, and leadership development programmes.
By strengthening support structures around beneficiaries, the bursary amplifies their potential to become influential contributors to maritime research, innovation, operations, and governance.
Contact and Further Information
Enquiries may be directed to [email protected]. Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit SAIMI’s website for detailed resources, organisational information, and additional opportunities within the maritime field.
Conclusion
Through the Sindiswa Carol ‘Tu’ Nhlumayo Merit Bursary, SAIMI continues to honour a remarkable leader while investing in the future of South Africa’s maritime capacity. The bursary embodies Ms Nhlumayo’s vision of empowering young people—especially women—to unlock the transformative potential of the oceans economy.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
