The South African Road Federation (SARF) Bursary Programme for 2026 presents a valuable opportunity for students pursuing careers in road transport and infrastructure development. This initiative aims to support the education and training of individuals in disciplines related to the road transport sector, contributing to the advancement of road safety, engineering, and management in South Africa.
Fields of Study Supported
The SARF Bursary Programme focuses on the following areas:
- Road Engineering (Civil): Including traffic engineering, transportation planning, pavement engineering, bridge engineering, construction materials, stormwater management, environmental considerations, and construction management.
- Road Transport Management: Emphasizing the efficient operation and management of road transport systems.
- Road Transport Economics: Focusing on the economic aspects of road transport, including cost analysis and policy development.
- Road Safety Engineering: Aiming to enhance road safety through design, analysis, and implementation of safety measures.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the SARF Bursary, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Academic Level: Preference is given to students pursuing postgraduate studies (M.Sc., M.Tech., or higher). However, applications from undergraduate students may be considered in special circumstances.
- Institution: Applicants must be enrolled full-time at a recognized and accredited South African university, university of technology, or equivalent institution.
- Academic Standing: National Diploma students should have passed their first semester (S1) examinations, while degree students must have passed their first-year examinations.
- Study Mode: Full-time study is preferred, but part-time and distance learning applications will also be considered.
- Endorsement: Applications must be endorsed by the appropriate academic authority at the institution where the applicant proposes to study.
- Career Intent: Applicants should demonstrate an intention to work within the South African road transport industry upon completion of their studies.
- SARF Membership: Preference may be given to employees of SARF member organizations.
Bursary Benefits
The SARF Bursary is a partial bursary intended to supplement the student’s other finances. The value of the bursary will depend on the applicant’s needs and the decision of the SARF Council. Funds are paid directly to the academic institution on behalf of the bursar.
Bursars are expected to:
- Enroll as associate (individual) members of SARF.
- Submit six-monthly reports on their study progress.
- Be prepared to make a presentation to their local SARF branch on the subject of their study.
Application Process
Interested students can download and complete the SARF Bursary Application Form from the SARF website. Completed applications, along with the necessary supporting documentation, should be submitted to:
- Hand Delivery: South African Road Federation, 48 Gladiator Street, Rhodesfield, Kempton Park, 1619
- Post: P.O. Box 8379, Birchleigh, 1621
Application Deadline
Applications for the 2026 academic year must be submitted by 31 August 2025. Late applications will not be considered, so it is advisable to apply early to avoid missing the deadline.
DOWNLOAD THE SARF BURSARY PROGRAMME FOR 2026 ADVERT HERE
DOWNLOAD THE SARF BURSARY PROGRAMME FOR 2026 APPLICATION FORM HERE
Our Conclusion
The SARF Bursary Programme offers a significant opportunity for students to advance their studies in the road transport sector. By supporting the education of future professionals, SARF contributes to the development of safer and more efficient road infrastructure in South Africa. Students interested in pursuing careers in road engineering, transport management, economics, or safety engineering are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this valuable opportunity.
CLOSING DATE: 31 AUGUST 2025
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