SUBTROP Lindsey Milne

About SUBTROP

SUBTROP, the South African Subtropical Growers' Association, is the industry body for subtropical fruit in South Africa. It is based in Tzaneen, Limpopo, and speaks for avocado, mango and litchi growers. The association backs research, extension services, training and community projects. It also works closely with commodity groups such as the South African Avocado Growers' Association, known as SAAGA. Together, these groups help growers share research results, solve production problems and act as one industry.

Education is part of that mission. Farms and packhouses need skilled horticulturists and agricultural economists, so the industry invests in students early. As a result, SUBTROP runs a bursary scheme that helps young people prepare for a career in subtropical fruit. Subtropical crops grow best in warm regions such as the Limpopo Lowveld, so a Tzaneen-based body is well placed to guide young people towards these careers.

The Lindsey Milne Bursary

The Lindsey Milne Bursary is named in honour of Dr DL Milne, who gave years of service to the subtropical fruit industry. It supports students working towards a BSc Agric degree. Preference goes to those majoring in Horticultural Science or Agricultural Economics. The value of an award depends on each case, and it is reviewed every year. An award is made for one year at a time and then reviewed. The scheme is open to students at South African universities that offer these degrees.

There is also a service obligation. A student who receives the bursary is expected to work for SUBTROP for one year for every year of funding, provided a position is available. This is a serious commitment, so read the agreement carefully before you accept an award.

What to know before applying

Applicants complete the official Lindsey Milne Bursary application form, which is available as a PDF on the SUBTROP website. The closing date shown on the site is 31 October. However, always check the current form for the exact year and any extra documents that are required.

Keep in mind that SAAGA runs its own bursary, which is listed on the same page. It is aimed at people from historically disadvantaged groups who study horticultural science or agricultural economics and agribusiness. It covers undergraduate and postgraduate study and also closes on 31 October. Amounts are not published for either scheme, so applicants should ask SUBTROP directly about the level of funding. Prepare a clear motivation that explains your interest in the subtropical fruit industry, and be ready to show strong academic results. Early applications also leave time to fix any missing documents.