About PAMSA
PAMSA, the Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa, was established in 1992. It represents more than 90% of the country's pulp, paper, board and tissue manufacturers. The association speaks for its members on shared issues that do not involve competition between them. These include forestry, climate change, recycling, water stewardship and legislation.
Education and training have been part of its mission from the start. A strong industry needs skilled people, and PAMSA treats study support as an investment in its own future. It also promotes career pathways and publishes information about paper, recycling and the industry through its public website, The Paper Story.
How PAMSA supports students
PAMSA funds the Master's in Engineering Bursary and Research Programme. It aims to build a pipeline of chemical engineers for the pulp and paper sector. The programme has run for more than 15 years, so it has a long record of launching young engineers into the industry.
The bursary pairs money with real research. Students join industry-linked projects on topics such as pulp processing, paper recycling, bio-based materials, fibre and process-waste beneficiation, water and energy efficiency, and resource efficiency. The work supports a circular bioeconomy, in which waste is reused instead of thrown away.
In the 2026 to 2027 cycle, the two-year award was reported at R320,000. It supports full-time postgraduate study and research at four participating universities, namely North-West University, Stellenbosch University, the University of Pretoria and the University of the Witwatersrand. Funding is meant to cover tuition, accommodation, study materials and living costs. Some PAMSA member companies may also offer their own bursaries and scholarships.
What to know before applying
The programme is for chemical engineering students. You should be a final-year BSc or BEng student, or a recent graduate, who wants to complete a Master's degree. Your research project must also be relevant to the pulp and paper industry. Strong results are important, since places are limited.
Applications have opened in April and closed at the end of June each year. Dates and funding values can change, so confirm them on the official PAMSA website before you start. Prepare your academic record, a motivation for your chosen research area and proof of your registration or planned registration.
Whether a work-back obligation applies has not been confirmed. However, the industry link is clear. Bursary holders gain research experience and contacts in the sector, which can help when they look for a first job. Ask PAMSA directly about the conditions of the award before you accept it, and never pay anyone to apply on your behalf.
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