De Beers

About De Beers

De Beers is one of the oldest diamond companies in the world. Cecil Rhodes founded it in 1888, after the diamond rush in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. Over time it grew into a global business that explores for, mines and sells rough diamonds.

Anglo American owns about 85% of the group, and the Government of Botswana holds the remaining 15%. In recent years, Anglo American has announced plans to separate from De Beers. As a result, the ownership structure may change, so applicants should check the latest news.

In South Africa, De Beers Consolidated Mines operates the Venetia mine in Limpopo, near the Zimbabwe border. Venetia has moved from open-pit to underground mining. This shift needs engineers, geologists, surveyors, metallurgists and finance staff for many years to come.

How De Beers supports students

De Beers has a long record of bursaries and skills development in mining-related fields. Past bursary calls have focused on subjects such as mining engineering, mechanical and electrical engineering, metallurgy, geology and mineral resource management. Some intakes also covered accounting and human resources.

Several recent calls were aimed at students from communities near the mine, such as the Blouberg and Musina municipal areas in Limpopo. Those awards covered tuition, textbooks and accommodation, and they offered paid vacation work at the operation. Other programmes have been run jointly with Anglo American. Because each call has its own rules, benefits and closing date, these details can change from year to year.

Bursaries in the mining sector often link to practical experience. For example, holiday work lets students see the operation first hand. Whether a work-back period applies depends on the specific bursary, so read the conditions before you accept an offer.

Students who want to enter the diamond sector should also understand why local bursaries exist. Mining charters expect mining companies to invest in skills and in the communities near their operations. This is one reason that De Beers has directed some awards to residents of the areas around Venetia. Strong marks in mathematics and science, and a clear interest in mining or geology, will help your case. In addition, it is wise to apply for other bursaries and for NSFAS at the same time, because mining awards are few.

What to know before applying

De Beers does not run one fixed, always-open bursary. Instead, it advertises limited awards when they are available, and competition is strong. Students normally need good marks in mathematics and physical science, plus proof that they have been accepted at a recognised university or university of technology.

Local-community bursaries usually ask for proof of residence and a letter from the municipality or traditional council. You should therefore collect certified copies of your ID, results and CV early. Always use the official De Beers website or its advertised recruitment contacts, and never pay anyone to secure a bursary.