The Western Cape Government is calling for applications to its Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year. The initiative targets students in engineering and built environment fields. Applications must be submitted online by 31 August 2026.
Programme Details And Application Timeline
The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary is managed by the Department of Infrastructure and is open to those pursuing diplomas or degrees in engineering and built environment disciplines. The bursary is available at the University of Cape Town, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, and Stellenbosch University. Financial support covers tuition, prescribed textbooks, accommodation, meals, and other approved study-related expenses.
Applicants are required to submit their applications through the official online portal before the closing date. The programme is designed to assist students who demonstrate both academic potential and financial need. The application process includes uploading all necessary supporting documents and ensuring the information provided is accurate.
Eligibility Criteria And Preference Categories
To be considered, applicants must be South African citizens who are either completing Matric or have already done so, and must intend to study full-time in 2027. Only those pursuing recognised qualifications in approved fields at one of the specified Western Cape universities are eligible. All required documents must be submitted before the deadline.
Preference may be given to certain groups, including financially disadvantaged students, women, those living with disabilities, and applicants from outside the Cape Town metropolitan area. However, meeting these criteria does not guarantee selection. The selection process also considers academic performance, financial need, and compliance with programme requirements.
Fields Of Study And University Requirements
The bursary supports a range of qualifications within the engineering and built environment sector. Approved study areas include architecture, city and regional planning, construction, civil engineering, electrical engineering (heavy current), geomatics, mechanical engineering, property studies, and quantity surveying. Applicants must be registered at, or accepted by, one of the three participating universities.
Students applying to more than one university or discipline must submit separate applications for each. Those studying outside the listed fields or at other institutions will not be considered for this bursary. The programme primarily supports undergraduate studies, and applicants are advised to confirm eligibility for postgraduate qualifications if applicable.
Financial Support And Required Documentation
The bursary may cover a range of expenses, including tuition fees, prescribed study materials, accommodation, meals, and transport where necessary. The exact value of the bursary depends on individual circumstances and the availability of funding. Applicants must provide certified copies of their identity document, Matric results or certificate, latest academic record if already studying, proof of university registration or acceptance, and a detailed course outline.
Additional documentation includes proof of residential address, parents’ or guardians’ identity documents and income, death certificates if applicable, and a motivational letter. Applicants with disabilities must submit medical proof, and those with a criminal record must provide a police clearance certificate. Incomplete or unclear applications may be disregarded.
Application Process And Motivational Letter Guidance
Applications must be completed online, with each section of the form filled out and all supporting documents uploaded. Applicants are encouraged not to wait until the final day to submit, as technical issues or missing documents could prevent successful submission. After submission, applicants should save their confirmation or reference number.
A strong motivational letter is required, outlining the applicant’s chosen qualification, reasons for selecting the field, academic achievements, financial circumstances, career goals, and how the qualification will contribute to infrastructure development. The letter should be honest, specific, and professionally written.
Programme Obligations And Selection Process
Successful bursary recipients may be required to participate in programme activities such as workshops, events, academic experiential training, and outreach initiatives. Some activities may take place over weekends. Upon graduation, recipients may need to work for the Department of Infrastructure and participate in a professional development programme.
Applications are assessed based on the programme’s requirements, available funding, and the applicant’s academic and financial profile. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and those who do not receive feedback by 12 February 2027 should consider their applications unsuccessful.