Postgraduate Travel Grants Available for the Forestry Science Symposium 2026 in Stellenbosch

Forestry South Africa (FSA) & South African Institute of Forestry (SAIF) are pleased to invite postgraduate student applications for a travel grant to attend the 2026 Forest Science Symposium, which brings together researchers, students, industry professionals and policymakers to share knowledge, showcase innovative research and discuss emerging issues in forest science and sustainable forest management. The bursary aims to support deserving participants who demonstrate academic merit, a strong interest in forest science and the potential to contribute meaningfully to the symposium and the broader forestry sector.

Successful applicants will receive support to the value of R10,000 that may be utilised for:

• Symposium registration fees
• Accommodation for the duration of the symposium
• Travel assistance

Applicants must:

• Be currently enrolled for a postgraduate programme in forestry, forest science, environmental science, natural resource management, ecology, conservation or a
  related discipline.
• Be a citizen or permanent resident of South Africa.
• Be available to attend the full duration of the symposium.
• Agree to participate in symposium activities and networking events.

Preference may be given to:

• Postgraduate students (Honours, Master’s, or PhD).
• Applicants presenting an oral or poster presentation.
• Applicants from historically underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Applicants who have not previously received financial support to attend the symposium.

Applicants should submit:

• A completed travel grant application form.
• A brief motivation letter (maximum 500 words) explaining:
  • Why they wish to attend the symposium.
  • How attendance will benefit their academic or professional development.
  • How they intend to apply the knowledge gained.
• A concise Curriculum Vitae (maximum 1 page).

Proof of current registration.

• A letter of support or recommendation from a supervisor or employer.
• Proof of submitting an oral or poster abstract.

Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Quality of the motivation.
• Relevance of the applicant’s work or studies to forest science.
• Potential impact of attending the symposium.
• Contribution to diversity and inclusion within the symposium.
• Overall completeness of the application.

Application Deadline
Application closing date: Friday 21 August 2026
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.