Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme 2026

In an era of rapid urban development and infrastructure transformation, South Africa must invest in nurturing its own pool of skilled professionals. The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme, launched by the Western Cape Government in 2006, does precisely that—with a sharp focus on engineering, transport, and built environment disciplines.

What Is Masakh’iSizwe Bursary?

Meaning “Let’s Build the Nation” in Nguni languages, Masakh’iSizwe was founded to bridge critical skills gaps in civil engineering, architecture, construction, quantity surveying, geomatics, urban planning and related fields. It provides full-cost bursaries—including tuition, prescribed textbooks and materials, accommodation or transport, and student support programmes—for full-time undergraduate or higher diploma studies at Western Cape institutions like UCT, Stellenbosch University and CPUT.

Who Should Apply?

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be South African citizens
• Be accepted or intending to study full‑time at UCT, Stellenbosch, or CPUT
• Pursue a degree or diploma in one of the approved engineering or built environment disciplines
• Ideally belong to under‑represented groups, including women, people with disabilities, financially disadvantaged students, or rural learners.

What Does the Bursary Cover?

Masakh’iSizwe provides a comprehensive financial package:

• Tuition fees
• All prescribed study materials and support programmes
• Accommodation and meals, or transport allowance
• Access to internships, academic workshops, and career development programmes

Note: The bursary does not cover expensive equipment like laptops or design software—unless an extraordinary hardship case is approved in writing, supported by the faculty dean.

What Are the Post-Graduation Obligations?

In most cases, recipients are required to work in the public service for one year for each year of bursary funding (a “work-back” agreement). However, if the Department of Infrastructure does not require the graduate’s services, or if a company offer is negotiated, students may be released from this obligation—typically without repayment requirement.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit the following documents:

• Certified copy of your ID (Applicant).
• Certified copy of your parent(s)/guardian(s) ID.
• Certified copy of your Matric certificate or latest results.
• Certified copy of your academic record at the Higher Education Institution (HEI).
• Full course outline/prospectus.
• Estimation of study cost.
• Proof of registration/application at the Higher Education Institution (HEI).
• Salary slips of both parents/guardian/spouse or affidavit to support financial status.
• Proof of address (Home address).
• Letter of motivation.

Additional documents (if applicable):

• Proof of financial aid.
• Proof of existing debt.
• Medical proof of disability.
• Criminal record – SAPS Police Clearance.

APPLY FOR THE MASAKH’ISIZWE BURSARY PROGRAMME FOR 2026 HERE

Benefits Beyond Funding

Masakh’iSizwe is not just about covering fees—it’s designed to foster well-rounded professionals:

• Structured academic and career support
• Internship placements in public or private sectors
• Exposure to outreach initiatives, networking, and leadership development

By focusing on lifelong learning, service, and citizenship, the programme aims to cultivate engineers and planners with a strong ethos of social justice and community upliftment.

Final Tips for Applicants:

1. Apply to your chosen university(s) before April 2025, ideally early to avoid last-minute mistakes.
2. Submit separate bursary applications if applying for multiple disciplines or institutions.
3. Prepare all certified documents early—especially financial records, motivation letters, proof of disability (if applicable), and course outlines.
4. Engage with support programmes and experiential training opportunities once selected.
5. Stay in touch with the Masakh’iSizwe office after submitting—regular checks will help avoid missed feedback.

This bursary is a golden opportunity for motivated South African youth to build a professional foundation in disciplines critical to future infrastructure and growth. If you’re driven, ready to study full‑time in Cape Town or Stellenbosch in 2026, don’t miss the April‑to‑August 2025 application window.

CLOSING DATE: 31 AUGUST 2025

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