Eric Molobi was one of the founders of Kagiso Trust and Kagiso Trust Investments. He played a pivotal role in forging a new path in promoting and supporting development, particularly amongst poverty stricken rural youth. Through his steadfastness and exemplary leadership, Eric Molobi made significant contributions to black economic empowerment and it is to his memory that the programme is dedicated.

Introducing the Eric Molobi Scholarship Programme (EMSP)

The Kagiso Trust is committed to transforming the country’s economy through implementing supportive and sustainable education initiatives at the heart of rural South Africa. As an extension of the Beyers Naude Schools Development Programme, the Kagiso Trust has conceptualised, implemented and managed a follow-on bursary programme named after its late founder, Mr. Eric Molobi. The programme sponsors disadvantaged learners to complete a tertiary education degree or diploma, primarily in the property or construction sector. Since its inception in 2006, the Eric Molobi Scholarship Programme (EMSP) has provided financial support for education to learners who are academically strong and show leadership potential, yet lack the resources to study further.

Through the programme, the Kagiso Trust is investing in a brighter future for some of South Africa’s most deserving young learners. Many of our scholarship awardees have not only excelled in their studies, but become brilliant mentors themselves, inspiring and motivating learners from their previous schools. As one of the larger challenges that faces South Africa today is the backlog of housing and infrastructure requirements, the scholars are encouraged, but not required, to study towards a degree in the property and construction sector. Eric Molobi himself played a great role in the delivery of housing during his years as member on a number of corporate boards.

The EMSP Goals

The EMSP was set up with the vision of creating a viable, vibrant network of twenty to forty young leaders in the business and science sectors by 2019. These leaders will be the vocal social conscience in their fields by consistently reminding their peers that financial success demands redressing socio-economic injustice, if it is to be sustainable. By doing so, the EMSP will continue to stimulate, inspire and advance skills development on a far greater scale than the network of direct beneficiaries.

How the EMSP Works

The EMSP scholars are chosen from rural, disadvantaged schools affiliated with the Beyers Naude Schools Development Programme against a strict set of criteria and attributes. EMSP scholars must demonstrate:

Leadership ability either in their community or school.

A strong sense of character, including ethics, integrity and humility.

That they have lived with or overcome severe personal challenges.

Commitment to spend university holidays and summer breaks participating in programme required activities.

Proof of South African citizenship.

Proof of provisional university acceptance.

The chosen learners receive funding for a three to four year degree, including books, educational equipment, accommodation, transport, administrative and management expenses. They are also presented with an opportunity to integrate theoretical and practical experiences within the Kagiso Group of companies for the duration of their undergraduate studies.