AMSOL is hereby inviting unbonded students who will be studying at a tertiary institution or at a SAMSA-accredited training facility in 2026, to apply for bursaries in the following disciplines:

• Bachelor of Marine Engineering
• Bachelor of Nautical Science
• Office in Charge of a Navigational Watch (Deck Officer)

REQUIREMENTS

• South African citizenship
• Grade 12 with a minimum Level 5
  or 60% in English, Mathematics
  and Physical Science
• Unbonded students (i.e. have not
  been awarded bursaries by any
  other party for 2026

Interested and qualifying applicants are invited to submit the following documents via email by the closing date to careers@amsol.co.za, marked clearly in the email subject line for the attention of “2026 Bursary Committee”.

• Letter of Motivation
• Curriculum Vitae (CV), including
  contactable references
• Final Grade 12 Results (National
  Senior Certificate) / Final Grade 11
• Results / latest Tertiary Results
• Proof of Application/Registration
  at a Tertiary Institution for 2026

Interested and qualifying applicants are invited to their applications via email to careers@amsol.co.za

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Bursary may have a contractual employment obligation, at the discretion of AMSOL, based on operational requirements.
• Students are responsible for their own registration at a Tertiary Institution for 2026.
• Basic bursary will cover tuition as a minimum. Other expenses including residence and textbooks will be awarded at the discretion
  of AMSOL, depending on financial and personal circumstances.
• Selection will be made in accordance with AMSOL’s Employment Equity Plan.
• Should you not be contacted within 2 months after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Closing Date: 30 September 2025

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has officially entered into a significant 25-year terminal operator agreement with Zululand Energy Terminals (ZET) for the development of South Africa’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal at the Port of Richards Bay. This milestone agreement follows ZET’s selection in 2024 as the preferred bidder to design, construct, and operate the terminal. ZET is a joint venture between Vopak Terminal Durban and Transnet Pipelines.

The LNG terminal, which will be located in the South Dunes precinct of the Port of Richards Bay, is expected to have an initial throughput capacity of at least two million tons per year. However, with future expansions, the terminal’s annual capacity could rise to more than five million tons over the course of the concession. The first phase of the development will feature a floating storage unit and an regasification system, with commercial operations slated to begin in 2028.

Acting CEO of TNPA, Phyllis Difeto, emphasized that this LNG terminal will attract an estimated investment of R7 billion to the Port of Richards Bay, reinforcing the port’s position as a prime gateway for LNG imports. She also highlighted TNPA’s ambitions to develop additional LNG terminals at the Ports of Saldanha (Western Cape) and Ngqura (Eastern Cape), contributing to South Africa’s energy security.

The development of this LNG terminal aligns with South Africa’s broader energy goals, including the introduction of at least 6,000 MW of gas-to-power projects in KwaZulu-Natal by Eskom and independent power producers.

In addition, TNPA has signed a R123-million agreement for the construction and operation of a new liquid bulk terminal at Richards Bay, to be managed by FFS Tank Terminals. This development is expected to enhance the port’s capacity to handle liquid bulk cargo, particularly bunker fuels, which are crucial for maritime logistics. The liquid bulk terminal is slated for commercial operation in February 2025 and will provide modernized bunkering services to a range of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers.

Both the LNG and liquid bulk terminals are expected to be key drivers of job creation in the region. The LNG terminal alone is projected to generate over 1,000 job opportunities during construction and operations, as well as create downstream business opportunities for the surrounding uMhlathuze region. The liquid bulk terminal will generate around 50 direct and indirect jobs throughout its development.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has praised both projects, viewing them as significant milestones in unlocking economic opportunities for the province. “This signing confirms that KwaZulu-Natal will become the leading ecosystem hub, attracting much-needed investment and creating job opportunities for our people,” Ntuli said.

“The introduction of this groundbreaking LNG import facility by Zululand Energy Terminal is a critical response to our nation’s energy challenges. Equally important, is the redevelopment of the bunkering services facility to be operated by our partner, FFS Tank Terminals. This development will further enhance the Port of Richards Bay’s liquid bulk handling capabilities, focusing on bunker fuel operations that are essential to maritime logistics,” Dr Andile Sangqu, Transnet Board Chairperson.

These developments are poised to be game changers for the economic landscape of the region, further cementing Richards Bay’s position as a critical hub for energy and maritime logistics in South Africa.

Source: Transnet National Ports Authority

Hosted by the Mirror Class of South Africa and Point Yacht Club, the championships will see a fleet of skilled sailors from across the globe competing for the coveted title. Taking place in the stunning offshore waters of Durban, competitors will experience not only thrilling competition but also the natural beauty of South Africa’s coastline, paired with our renowned hospitality.

This is not the first time South Africa has hosted the Mirror World Championships. The country previously welcomed the event in 2007 and 2015, and this year’s competition is set to be just as exciting. With more than 400 competitors and supporters expected to attend, including the Pre-Worlds event, the stage is set for an unforgettable week of sailing.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a fan of the sport, the 2025 Mirror World Championships is a must-see event. For all the details, visit Mirror World Championships 2025.

Date: November 6-8, 2024
Location: Durban, South Africa

Don’t miss this chance to engage with groundbreaking ideas and investment prospects driving Africa’s maritime industry. The future is blue, and Africa is open for business.

Register now at africanmaritimeindaba.com!

Ms. Nomalanga Sokhela, Programme Manager: Maritime Industry Development, eThekwini Municipality Economic Development Unit speaking on this special occasion said “Our Blue Economy strategy is not only about boosting the maritime industry, but about creating an inclusive, sustainable model that benefits all sectors of society. This week is a testament to how collaboration across government, industry, and community can unlock new economic opportunities while protecting our ocean resources.”

The week began with a Cultural Carnival on 24 September, bringing together a vibrant display of local heritage and maritime culture. A standout event was a Mangrove Trail learning session, where community members were introduced to the biodiversity of Durban’s unique coastal ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of conservation and indigenous knowledge in sustaining the Blue Economy.

Coinciding with World Maritime Day on 26 September, a Maritime Careers Expo provided more than 300 high school students with the opportunity to explore maritime career paths.

Participant from the Careers Expo: “Attending this event has really opened my eyes to the potential of a career in the maritime industry. I never realized how many opportunities exist right here in Durban, and it’s inspiring to see how young people like us can contribute to the future of our oceans.”

– Thandeka Dlamini, Grade 12 student at Margot Fonteyn Secondary School

The EThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC) Youth Innovation Challenge Finals were a key highlight, where students from schools across the region presented innovative solutions for the sector. JG Zuma Secondary School won first prize, followed by Rydal Park and Margot Fonteyn Secondary Schools. These activities were accompanied by an exhilarating sailing competition, showcasing the potential of recreational maritime sports in Durban.

Mr. Sibusiso Zondo, Program Director of the EMC Youth Innovation Challenge said “The Blue Economy is the future, and the youth are the driving force behind this transformation. Through this challenge, we’ve seen remarkable creativity and innovation from our students, proving that the solutions to our maritime challenges are right here in our communities.”

On 27 September, Durban joined the global community in celebrating World Tourism Day, highlighting its role as a premier tourist destination. A variety of activities, from adventure sports to museum visits, shopping, and beach relaxation, gave both locals and visitors a taste of the city’s rich maritime and cultural offerings.

The Blue Economy Week ended with a fashion extravaganza and a beachside concert, celebrating the fusion of creativity, culture, and sustainability that defines Durban’s approach to economic development through the Blue Economy.

“Durban is positioned to be a leader in the global Blue Economy. Blue Economy Week 2024 has shown us the importance of combining innovation, community engagement, and sustainable practices to create long-term economic growth that benefits everyone,” adjoined Ms. Zenzile Gwamanda, Managing Director of the EThekwini Maritime Cluster.

The Blue Economy Week 2024 was a resounding success, marking yet another step towards positioning Durban as a hub for sustainable maritime and coastal economic development.