About Thebe Foundation

The Thebe Foundation was established in February 2011 as an independent trust to drive Thebe’s corporate social investment (CSI) strategy. It forges partnerships between Thebe, its subsidiaries, and economically marginalised communities to promote transformation and build a more prosperous South Africa.

The Foundation’s programmes focus mainly on education and enterprise & supplier development (ESD), enabling Thebe and its partners to deliver impactful interventions that improve lives and strengthen communities.

True to the African idiom, “No matter how far a stream flows, it never forgets its source,” Thebe remains committed to its core mission — To Build Communities.

About the Dr EJ Mabuza Scholarship

The Dr EJ Mabuza Scholarship Fund was founded in 2016 in honour of Dr Enos Mabuza, who played a critical role in establishing Thebe Investment Corporation alongside Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, and Beyers Naudé.

This scholarship supports financially needy students studying at public tertiary institutions, aiming to develop graduates who are confident in their African identity, academically strong, and ready to contribute meaningfully to society.

What the Bursary Covers:

Tuition fees
Textbooks
Accredited accommodation costs
Meals and transport allowance (for students living at home)

Note: The bursary does not cover historical debt. Applicants must terminate any existing bursary (e.g., NSFAS) if accepted.

Who Can Apply

Must be a South African citizen under 35 years old
Unemployed and pursuing a full-time qualification (Diploma, Degree, Honours, or Masters — excluding PhD)
Good academic record — minimum 60% average
Household income below R600 000 per year
Belong to a Black Designated Group (Africans, Coloureds, Indians, Asians)
Studying or intending to study at a public institution registered with DHET and SAQA

Fields of Study:

Accounting
Corporate Finance
Finance
Mining Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Agriculture
Education (Mathematics and Technology focus)
Renewable Energy
Water and Energy
ICT
Media and Communication

TVET Artisan Programmes:

Electricians
Plumbing
Mechanics
Solar Voltaic Service Technicians
Millwright

Required Documents

All documents must be certified within 3 months. Combine multiple documents for one submission.

Motivation letter (one page)
Certified ID (applicant and parents/guardians)
Proof of household income or affidavits confirming unemployment
Latest academic results or matric certificate
Proof of registration (if applicable)
Acceptance letter for 2026 (if available)
Additional documents for disability or previous funding (if relevant)

For applicants under 18, submit a signed guardian consent form available here.

How to Apply

Visit the application portal and complete the online form.
Ensure all information is correct and all required documents are attached.
Submit before Friday, 17 October 2025 (12 midday).

Apply Here Visit Thebe Foundation

Tip: If you’re asked where you heard about the bursary, make www.edufunds.co.za your reference.