South Africa’s agricultural sector remains one of the most critical pillars of the economy—feeding the nation, creating jobs, and sustaining rural communities. Yet, the sector continues to face a serious shortage of skilled professionals, particularly among young people from rural and underprivileged backgrounds.
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In response to this challenge, the Land Bank has officially opened applications for the Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026—a fully funded bursary opportunity aimed at empowering future leaders in agriculture and agricultural finance.
Quick Overview
| Category | Details |
| Bursary Provider | Land and Agricultural Development Bank of South Africa (Land Bank) |
| Programme | Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026 |
| Fields Covered | Undergraduate studies at Agricultural Colleges registered with CHE |
| Funding | Full tuition, books, accommodation, meals & monthly allowance |
| Age Requirement | 18 – 28 years |
| Target Group | South African youth, rural & historically disadvantaged communities |
| Closing Date | 05 January 2026 |
| Application Method | Email application |
| Email Address | bursaries@landbank.co.za |
Purpose of the Land Bank Bursary Programme
The Land Bank Bursary Programme is more than just financial assistance—it is a strategic investment in South Africa’s future.
The programme is designed to:
- Address critical skills shortages in agriculture and agricultural finance
- Create career pathways for rural youth
- Promote inclusive economic participation
- Build a pipeline of skilled graduates who can contribute to sustainable agriculture
Through this bursary, Land Bank actively supports the development of professionals who will drive food security, rural development, and economic transformation.
Aim of the Programme: What Land Bank Is Trying to Achieve
Through the Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026, the institution aims to:
- Build a sustainable talent pipeline for scarce and critical skills
- Promote diversity and inclusion in the agricultural finance ecosystem
- Empower youth from rural and underprivileged communities
- Strengthen professional capacity in the agricultural sector
This bursary is particularly important for students who may not have access to traditional funding options but demonstrate academic potential and commitment to agriculture.
Structure of the Land Bank Bursary Programme
The bursary is structured to provide holistic support, ensuring that students can focus on their studies without financial stress.
- Financial Support Provided
Successful applicants will receive comprehensive funding, which includes:
- Full tuition fee coverage at Agricultural Colleges registered with the Council on Higher Education (CHE)
- Funding for prescribed textbooks and study materials
- A monthly living allowance
- Accommodation and meal allowances, where applicable
This makes the Land Bank Bursary one of the most comprehensive agricultural bursaries available in South Africa.
- Targeted Fields of Study
The programme prioritises undergraduate studies at:
- Agricultural Colleges registered with the Council on Higher Education (CHE) in South Africa
These qualifications are aligned with national development priorities and the skills needs of the agricultural sector.
- Developmental & Career Support
Land Bank understands that funding alone is not enough. Bursary recipients also benefit from career-building opportunities, including:
- Mentorship and academic support
- Workplace exposure, including vacation work opportunities
- Participation in the Land Bank Alumni Programme
- Access to professional development workshops and seminars
This approach significantly improves graduate employability and long-term career prospects.
Who Can Apply?
To be considered for the Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between 18 and 28 years old
- Demonstrate strong academic performance in Grade 12 or tertiary studies
- Show a genuine interest in agriculture and rural development
- Come from historically disadvantaged backgrounds, with preference given to rural communities
Selection is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee funding.
Post-Graduation Commitment & Alumni Programme
While the bursary does not enforce strict work-back obligations, successful students are strongly encouraged to:
- Participate in the Land Bank Alumni Programme
- Engage in networking, mentorship, and industry exposure initiatives
- Contribute skills and insights to the agricultural sector
This creates long-term professional relationships and strengthens the agricultural talent ecosystem.
How to Apply for the Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026
Follow these steps carefully to avoid disqualification:
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Download the Land Bank Bursary Application Form here
- Fully complete the application form
- Attach all required supporting documents
- Email your application to: bursaries@landbank.co.za
Closing Date: 05 January 2026
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Before you Apply, Check the Edupstairs Youth Tools Hub below that can be helpful in your application
- Edupstairs Financial Literacy Mini-School
- Grow your Confidence – 30-day Challenge
- SA Bursary Probability Checker
- Edupstairs Simple CV Builder Tool
- Edupstairs AI Cover Letter Generator Tool
- Edupstairs Learnership Application Checklist Tool
- Edupstairs Internship Application Checklist Tool
- Edupstairs Interview Q & A Coach Tool
- SA Youth Apprenticeship Readiness Quiz
- Edupstairs Learnership Stipend Calculator Tool
- NSFAS Funding Eligibility Checker Tool
- Edupstairs Qualification-to-Career Pathways Tool
- South African Salary Explorer Tool
- TVET College Enrolment Eligibility Checker Tool
- Edupstairs Career Personality Tool
- Daily Career Score Tracker
- Learnership and Internship Readiness Quiz
Edupstairs Advice: Read This Before You Apply
At Edupstairs, we encourage applicants to:
- Prepare a clear, professional CV highlighting agricultural interest
- Write a strong motivation explaining your rural background and career goals
- Ensure documents are certified and readable
- Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues
Use our Free CV Builder and Bursary Application Checker on Edupstairs to strengthen your application.
Career Growth Path After This Bursary
After completing your studies, potential career paths include:
- Agricultural Technician
- Farm Manager
- Agribusiness Specialist
- Agricultural Finance Officer
- Development Practitioner
- Policy & Research Roles in Agriculture
With Land Bank exposure, graduates are well positioned for opportunities across government, private sector, NGOs, and development finance institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Land Bank Bursary fully funded?
Yes. The bursary covers tuition, books, accommodation, meals, and a monthly allowance.
Can TVET or Agricultural College students apply?
Yes, provided the institution is registered with the Council on Higher Education (CHE).
Is this bursary only for rural students?
Preference is given to rural applicants, but eligible South African youth may still apply.
Is there a work-back contract?
There is no compulsory work-back agreement, but participation in the Alumni Programme is encouraged.
Can I apply if I’m already studying?
Yes, provided you meet the academic and age requirements.
CLOSING DATE: 05 JANUARY 2026
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Disclaimer
Edupstairs is not affiliated with Land Bank. This article is published for informational purposes only. Applicants must verify details directly with Land Bank before applying.
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