Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal

About Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal

Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal is an employers' organisation for the province's building and construction industry. It has operated since 1901, which makes it more than a century old. Its offices are in Westville, near Durban. It is registered under the Labour Relations Act and represents more than 700 member companies, from large contractors to small building firms.

The association is part of Master Builders South Africa. That national federation brings together nine provincial associations and over 4 000 contractors and employers. Master Builders therefore speaks for the industry on issues such as labour relations, training and standards.

How Master Builders supports students

The industry has struggled with a shortage of built-environment skills for years. To help, the association runs a bursary fund for students in building, construction, engineering and related fields. Awards cover qualifications such as apprenticeships, national certificates, diplomas and degrees that the bursary committee approves.

Because the funder is an association and not a single employer, the bursary does not tie you to one firm. Instead, it grows the pool of qualified people from which all member companies can hire. For a student, that means more freedom to choose where to start a career.

Selection looks at three things. First, the panel weighs financial need. Second, it checks academic ability. Third, it considers whether your course is in demand in the sector. Preference goes to KwaZulu-Natal residents and to students in construction-related study. Awards run for one year at a time, and the committee renews them if your progress is satisfactory. Pass your modules, therefore, if you want funding to continue.

What to know before applying

You must be a South African citizen, and either in matric or already finished. You should study full-time at a registered South African institution. A strong academic record and clear financial need are essential.

The application pack usually asks for certified copies of your ID, matric or academic results and proof of acceptance. It also asks for a fee invoice or quotation, a motivation letter, a recommendation letter and a CV. In addition, you must show your household income and your home address. Recent calls closed in mid-January, and successful applicants heard by the end of February. Late applications are normally rejected, so send your documents early and follow the instructions in the official notice.

Public information does not describe a work-back obligation. Even so, confirm the terms of any award in writing before you accept. Amounts differ by year and by course, so check the current advert on the Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal website for the exact value and process.