Apply for Martin & East 2027 Gap Year & 2028 Bursary
Martin & East is inviting South African students who finish Matric in 2026 to apply for its 2027 Gap Year programme, which offers paid work in civil engineering disciplines. Successful participants will receive a bursary to study Civil Engineering in 2028 at one of five leading universities. The ap…
By Felo News Desk · Published
South Africa’s civil engineering and construction firm Martin & East has announced a two‑stage opportunity for students who will complete Matric in 2026. The first stage is a paid 2027 Gap Year programme that immerses participants in real‑world construction work. The second stage offers a bursary to fund a Civil Engineering degree in 2028 at one of five accredited universities.
What the Programme Offers
The Gap Year is designed to give students hands‑on experience across a broad range of civil engineering tasks. Participants will be placed on a Construction Roadworks and Supervision Learnership and will earn a salary while working in the following areas:
- Bulk Earthworks and Landfills
- Bridges and Concrete Structures
- Crushing and Screening
- Erosion Protection and Gabions
- Low‑Cost Housing and Services
- Pipelines and Underground Services
- Road Construction and Rehabilitation
- Road Surfacing and Maintenance
- Synthetic Playing Fields
- Trenchless Solutions
After completing the Gap Year, participants will be evaluated on site performance. Those who excel will be considered for a bursary that covers tuition for a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering Technology, or a Diploma in Civil Engineering for the 2028 intake.
Eligible Institutions and Selection Criteria
The bursary can be used at one of five universities that Martin & East has partnered with:
- University of Cape Town
- Stellenbosch University
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- University of Pretoria
- Nelson Mandela University
Selection will be made by a bursary committee that weighs two main factors: the applicant’s overall performance during the Gap Year and acceptance into one of the approved programmes at an approved institution.
How to Apply
Students who meet the following minimum criteria should apply by emailing az.oc.puorgem@sreerac with the subject line “Scholar Recruitment 2027”. No online application form is required; applicants must attach the following documents:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Matric June results and latest results
- Curriculum Vitae
Key eligibility requirements include:
- South African citizenship
- Currently in Matric in 2026
- Willingness to complete the 2027 Gap Year
- Intention to study Civil Engineering in 2028 (BSc/BEng/BEng Tech/Diploma)
- Acceptance into one of the five listed universities
- Minimum 60% in Pure Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy/Technical Mathematics and Physical Science
The deadline for submissions is 30 October 2026. Applications received after this date will not be considered. For questions, contact Megan Adonis or Zelia Cyster at the email address above. Please do not contact Martin & East if the bursary has already closed.
Why This Matters
By bridging the gap between high school and university, Martin & East provides students with practical experience, financial support, and a clear pathway into the civil engineering profession. This initiative helps to address South Africa’s skills shortage in infrastructure development while offering young people a chance to earn while they learn.
Next Steps for Applicants
Students should gather their documents, verify they meet the eligibility criteria, and send their application email before 30 October 2026. Successful applicants will be notified of their placement in the Gap Year, and later of bursary award status once the committee completes its review.
Key facts
- Paid 2027 Gap Year in civil engineering disciplines
- Bursary available for 2028 Civil Engineering studies
- Eligibility: South African citizen, Matric 2026, 60% in key subjects
- Applications due 30 Oct 2026 via email
- Five partner universities: UCT, Stellenbosch, Cape Peninsula, UP, NMMU
Why it matters
Martin & East’s initiative equips future civil engineers with real‑world experience and financial backing, directly addressing the nation’s infrastructure skill gap and fostering a new generation of qualified professionals.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I am not selected for the bursary?
You will still complete the Gap Year and receive a salary, but the bursary award will not be granted.
Can I choose a different university for my degree?
No, the bursary is only valid for the five approved institutions listed in the programme.
Is the Gap Year full‑time?
Yes, participants will work full‑time on construction projects under supervision.
Will I receive any academic credits during the Gap Year?
The programme focuses on practical training; academic credit is not awarded.
How is performance assessed during the Gap Year?
Supervisors will evaluate work quality, punctuality, teamwork, and safety compliance.
Sources
- [1] bizcommunity.com — originally reported as “Calling future civil engineers: Apply for 2027-28 Martin & East Gap Year and Bursary programme”
