Update on UTT Bursary Applications
Who We Are
The Upstream Training Trust (UTT) was established in 1997 by the Petroleum Agency SA (the Agency) and the companies participating in the South African off and on-shore search for oil and gas.
“Upstream” refers to the exploration, development and production phases of the petroleum industry, that is the phases prior to the refining of produced natural oil or gas. The term therefore includes seismic surveying, exploration (drilling) and production.
It plays a visible role in creating opportunities for training and development of South Africans in this industry. The UTT, as part of the Petroleum Agency SA, was formed with this objective in mind.
What we do
The Upstream Training Trust (UTT) is a non-profit organisation that seeks to contribute towards the development of scientific and engineering capacity in South Africa for the upstream petroleum industry through investment in human capital development with a specific focus on historically disadvantaged individuals. Thus supporting a sustainable on-ongoing search for oil and gas in the country by concentrating on three disciplines.
Update on UTT Bursary Applications
The Upstream Training Trust (UTT) has received many enquiries about its bursary programme. This notice explains recent changes and what they mean for current and prospective applicants.
Why funding has decreased
UTT is funded by contributions from companies that hold petroleum exploration and production rights in South Africa. Fewer applications for these rights in recent years have reduced the Trust’s income, and with it the number of students UTT is able to support.
Reduced intake
To protect the long-term sustainability of the bursary programme, the Trustees have reduced the annual intake from about 80 students in previous years to 45 students in 2026.
Current beneficiaries come first
UTT is committed to ensuring that students already on the programme can complete their studies without interruption. Available funds have therefore been prioritised for existing beneficiaries.
Open applications on hold
The open application process has historically attracted a very large number of applicants. With current funding levels, only a small fraction could be supported, and the Trustees do not want to raise expectations that cannot be met. The open bursary application process has therefore been temporarily placed on hold.
UTT’s commitment remains
This decision does not change UTT’s mandate. The Trustees are exploring other ways to identify and support deserving students, ensuring that every rand is used effectively and responsibly. Any future approach will balance UTT’s developmental goals with its duty to manage the Trust’s finances prudently, so that it can continue supporting South Africans in the petroleum and energy sectors now and in the future.
Any changes to the application process will be announced on this website and on UTT’s social media channels.
For enquiries, contact utt2@petroleumagencysa.com or +27 (0)21 938 3500.
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Impact
Since its establishment UTT has achieved a significant milestone by supporting over 400 students and collaborating with various organisations and institutions in supporting different projects.
One of the activities that UTT is particularly proud of is its participation in school-going science exhibitions and festivals. These events provide a valuable opportunity for UTT to educate and encourage leaners about the importance of including science and mathematics in their subject choices. Moreover, these events allow UTT to showcase young scientists who can serve as role models and inspire learners to consider careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Being a UTT bursary beneficiary has been the best thing to happen to me at varsity since I didn’t have any means to pay for my fees because I’m from a family of 6
I have been on the bursary programme for 3 years (going on 4). My experience has been fantastic and I’ve dealt with very kind, helpful, and organised coordinators.
This Bursary has provided me with the platform to be able to further my studies, during a time where obtaining finances for tertiary was a huge struggle for my mom.