The Shoprite Group says that applications from information technology and data engineering students are especially sought after, given the critical skills shortage in these sectors.

According to the retailer, comprehensive bursaries are awarded to assist with tuition, books and accommodation fees. Each bursary comes with a work-back agreement, which would see the successful applicant ensured a job opportunity upon graduation.

As a leading employer in South Africa with more than 147 000 employees, the group aims to offer "hard-working and ambitious individuals exciting jobs at its various offices across Africa", as well as sought-after opportunities through its Data Science Academy apprenticeship programme.

During the 2019 academic year, the group awarded just over R17-million in bursaries to 282 students. These included 178 women, 210 previously disadvantaged students and 59 students from other African countries.

For more information, or to apply for a bursary, visit www.shoprite.co.za. You can also follow the Shoprite Group on Facebook or on Twitter.