The search for the country’s future leaders can never begin soon enough. That is according to the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation, which seeks to equip future high growth entrepreneurs with the skills and tools to succeed. It is for this reason that the Foundation is looking to provide the country’s brightest young minds with the opportunity to excel through their high school careers.

The Foundation is offering a limited number of scholarships to learners currently in Grade 6, to complete Grades 8 to 12 at selected leading government and independent schools from 2011 onwards.

“Education is one of the cornerstones necessary to unearth the vast promise that this country holds,” explains Deon Newkirk, Scholars Programme Director at the Foundation. “The aim of the Grade 6 programme is thus to provide financially disadvantaged students who display exceptional abilities the opportunity to excel in their high school careers,” continues Newkirk.

The Allan Gray Scholars are selected on their academic performance and involvement in extramural activities, with particular emphasis on financial need. Applicants undergo a rigorous selection process which includes, amongst others, assessment tests, in English and Mathematics, as well as interviews with candidates and one of their parents or guardians.

The benefits of the programme include a scholarship which will cover the full cost of tuition and boarding fees, where necessary. Financial allowances for travel, stationary, books, toiletries, school uniforms, civilian clothes as well as a monthly stipend are also provided. Further financial support covering extramural expenses are also included in the programme benefits.

Applications forms for the scholarship programme must be obtained by the 4th of September. This can be done by smsing as follows: “SCHOLAR, E-mail or Fax” to 33981 or visiting Bright Sparks Wanted. The deadline for submission of completed, original 2009 Allan Gray Scholarship Applications forms is no later than 12h00, Friday the 18th of September 2009.