The Shoprite Group, Africa’s largest retailer, offers a comprehensive bursary programme aimed at nurturing the next generation of retail industry professionals. This initiative alleviates the financial burdens of tertiary education and provides a clear pathway to employment within the Group, fostering a seamless transition from academia to the professional world.

Overview of the Shoprite Bursary Programme

The Shoprite Bursary Programme is designed to support high-achieving students pursuing degrees in fields critical to the retail sector. For the 2024/2025 academic years, bursaries are available in the following disciplines:

• Accounting (CA Stream – SAICA)
• Biological and Agricultural Sciences
• Criminology
• Data Science
• Food Science
• Information Technology/Systems
• Retail Business Management
• Supply Chain & Logistics

Each field has a specific number of bursaries allocated, reflecting the Group’s strategic focus on areas essential to its operations.

Expenses Covered

The bursary covers a range of expenses to ensure students can focus on their studies without financial distractions:

• Tuition Fees: Full coverage of academic fees for the duration of the programme.
• Accommodation: Allowances provided for on-campus or approved accommodation.
• Books and Study Materials: Financial support for prescribed textbooks and necessary study resources.
• Monthly Grocery Allowance: Beneficiaries receive a monthly allowance to assist with living expenses.

Application Process

Prospective applicants should follow these steps to apply:

• Online Registration: Create an account on the Shoprite recruitment portal. Visit the portal
• Application Form: Complete the online application form, ensuring all sections are filled accurately.
• Supporting Documents: Upload certified copies of the following:
  • South African ID document
  • Matric certificate
  • Full tertiary academic record, including the most recent results on the institution’s letterhead
• Submission: Review the application for completeness and submit it through the online portal.

It’s important to note that applications submitted via email or other means will not be accepted; all applications must be completed online.

This ensures that prospective applicants have a direct link to access the portal for their application.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
• Age: Not older than 27 years at the time of application.
• Academic Status: Currently enrolled in or intending to pursue studies in one of the specified fields at a recognised and accredited South African tertiary institution.
• Academic Performance: A minimum overall average of 60% to 65%, depending on the field of study. Specific subjects may require higher marks.
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Each field of study has detailed requirements, so applicants should review the specific criteria for their chosen discipline.

Closing Dates

The application window for the 2024/2025 academic year is open from 1 July to 30 September 2024. To avoid last-minute issues, it’s advisable to submit applications well before the closing date.

Selection Process

After the application period closes, the selection process involves:

• Screening: Assessment of applications against eligibility criteria.
• Shortlisting: Candidates meeting the requirements are shortlisted for further evaluation.
• Interviews: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or assessments.
• Notification: Successful applicants are notified and provided with further instructions.

Applicants who do not receive feedback within 30 days of the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.

Obligations and Opportunities

Bursary recipients are required to work for the Shoprite Group upon graduation, with a service contract stipulating one year of employment for each year of bursary funding received. This arrangement ensures that graduates gain practical experience and contribute to the company’s success.

Additionally, bursary holders have access to the Shoprite Employee Wellness Programme. They are often offered positions that align with their field of study, providing a robust foundation for their professional careers.

Contact Information

For further inquiries regarding the bursary programme, applicants can contact Shoprite Holdings directly via email at Bursary@shoprite.co.za. It’s recommended to consult the Shoprite Bursary FAQs before reaching out, as many common questions are addressed there.

Conclusion

The Shoprite Bursary Programme represents a significant opportunity for South African students to advance their education and secure employment within a leading retail organisation. By investing in the development of young talent, Shoprite enhances individual career prospects and contributes to the broader growth and innovation within the retail sector.