Bester Graduate Development Programme Bursary: A Complete Student Guide for South Africans
South Africa faces a growing demand for graduates who are not only academically qualified but also ready to perform in real workplace environments. While many students successfully complete university or TVET college qualifications, transitioning into employment remains a major challenge due to limited work experience.
The Bester Graduate Development Programme Bursary was created to bridge this gap. It combines financial support with structured graduate development, mentorship, and workplace exposure. This makes it an ideal opportunity for students who want more than just tuition funding and are focused on long-term career success.
This guide explains everything South African students need to know about the Bester Graduate Development Programme Bursary, including its purpose, benefits, eligibility, and how it can positively shape your career.
What Is the Bester Graduate Development Programme Bursary?
The Bester Graduate Development Programme Bursary is a structured bursary initiative designed to support high-potential South African students and graduates. Unlike traditional bursaries that only cover study costs, this programme places strong emphasis on professional development and employability.
The programme typically includes:
- Financial support for tertiary studies
- Structured graduate development after completion of studies
- Workplace exposure aligned with qualifications
- Mentorship and professional coaching
- Career guidance based on industry needs
This approach ensures beneficiaries graduate with both academic qualifications and practical workplace skills.
Purpose of the Bester Graduate Development Programme
The main goal of the programme is to improve graduate employment outcomes while contributing to sustainable skills development in South Africa.
Key Objectives
- Address critical skills shortages
- Prepare graduates for real work environments
- Improve employability and career readiness
- Develop future professionals and leaders
This long-term focus benefits both graduates and employers by creating a pipeline of skilled, workplace-ready talent.
Why Graduate Development Bursaries Matter in South Africa
Graduate unemployment remains a serious challenge. According to Statistics South Africa, youth unemployment continues to rise, even among degree holders.
The issue is often not qualifications, but a lack of experience. Graduate development bursaries directly address this by combining education funding with practical workplace exposure.
Common Challenges Graduates Face
- Little or no work experience
- High competition for entry-level jobs
- Mismatch between theory and workplace demands
- Financial pressure during and after studies
Fields of Study Commonly Supported
While supported fields may vary annually, graduate development bursaries generally focus on qualifications aligned with national skills priorities.
Typical Fields Include
- Business Management and Administration
- Finance, Accounting, and Economics
- Engineering and Technical Studies
- Supply Chain and Logistics
- Information Technology and Data Analytics
- Human Resources and Organisational Development
Applicants should always check official announcements for updated eligibility criteria.
What the Bursary Usually Covers
The bursary component is designed to reduce financial stress so students can focus on their studies and development.
Typical Coverage
- Tuition fees (full or partial)
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- Accommodation or housing allowance (where applicable)
- Participation in a structured graduate development programme
The inclusion of post-study development significantly improves employment prospects.
The Graduate Development Component Explained
This component focuses on converting academic knowledge into practical workplace skills.
Workplace Exposure
Graduates are placed in structured roles related to their field of study, allowing them to:
- Apply theoretical knowledge
- Understand workplace culture
- Build communication and problem-solving skills
- Strengthen their CV with relevant experience
Mentorship and Coaching
Experienced professionals guide graduates through mentorship, offering career advice, performance feedback, and personal development support.
Who Should Apply?
This programme is ideal for motivated South African students and graduates committed to growth.
Typical Eligibility
- South African citizenship
- Strong academic performance
- Enrollment in or completion of a recognised qualification
- Willingness to participate in a graduate programme
How to Prepare a Strong Application
- Maintain good academic results
- Write a clear and focused motivation letter
- Highlight leadership and teamwork experience
- Ensure documents are certified and complete
For ongoing bursary and graduate programme updates, visit Wikihii.co.za graduate bursary guides or join our WhatsApp updates channel.
Frequently asked questions FAQs
What is the Bester Graduate Development Programme Bursary?
The Bester Graduate Development Programme Bursary is a funding and career development opportunity offered by Bester Feed & Grain (Pty) Ltd, an agricultural and trading company in South Africa. It combines a full bursary to fund university studies in select fields with practical work experience and mentorship, aimed at developing future professionals and building a talent pipeline.
Who can apply for Bester Graduate Development Programme Bursary?
South African citizens who are enrolled in a recognised tertiary institution and are entering their 2nd year or higher of a degree are eligible. You must be studying in one of the approved fields such as Agriculture, Business, Finance, Logistics/Supply Chain, or Marketing
What academic requirements do I need? for Bester Graduate Development Programme Bursary
Applicants must have achieved at least a 65% overall academic average to qualify for this bursary
What fields of study does the Bester Graduate Development Programme Bursary support?
The programme funds degree studies in the following areas:
Agriculture
Business
Finance
Logistics/Supply Chain
MarketingWhat benefits does the Bester Graduate Development Programme Bursary include?
Successful applicants receive:
✔ Full coverage of tuition fees
✔ Paid vacation work: 2 weeks in June/July and 2 weeks in November/December each year
✔ Mentorship and workplace exposure with senior managers at Bester
✔ Guidance to prepare for your future career within the company.Is there a work obligation after graduation?
Yes. After graduating, bursary recipients are required to work for Bester for a period equal to the number of years they received funding. This is part of the bursary’s service contract
How do I apply for the Bester bursary programme?
To apply:
Email your application to: bursaries@bester.co.za
Use the subject line: “Bester Graduate Development Programme”
Attach the following:
• Certified copy of your South African ID
• Official academic transcripts
• A strong motivational letter explaining why you should receive the bursary
• An updated curriculum vitae (CV)
There is no formal online application form—applications are made via email with the required documents.When is the application deadline and can I apply year-round?
Some listings show applications are open throughout the year with no fixed deadline, while others mention that bursary applications can close mid-year (e.g., June). It’s best to apply early and confirm specific closing dates with Bester before sending your application to ensure it’s considered.
Conclusion
The Bester Graduate Development Programme Bursary offers more than financial assistance—it provides a clear pathway from education to employment. By combining funding, mentorship, and workplace exposure, it equips graduates with the skills needed to succeed in a competitive job market.
For students serious about long-term career growth, this programme can be a powerful stepping stone toward professional success.
