KwaZulu-Natal Government Bursary 2026 — The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government is inviting students to apply for their comprehensive bursary programme for the 2026 academic year. This multi-departmental initiative provides funding across various critical fields including agriculture, engineering, veterinary science, accounting, and transport studies, supporting the province’s development goals and creating opportunities for local talent.
About KwaZulu-Natal Province
KwaZulu-Natal (or “KZN”) was formed in 1994 when the Zulu bantustan of KwaZulu merged with the Natal Province. The province has the 2nd largest population in South Africa, with Durban as its largest city and Pietermaritzburg as its capital. Known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse economy, and stunning coastline, KZN is committed to developing its human capital through strategic educational investments.
The provincial government’s bursary programme represents a significant investment in developing skilled professionals who can contribute to KZN’s economic growth, infrastructure development, and public service delivery across multiple sectors.
Preference will be given to students who pursue their studies within the KwaZulu-Natal province, supporting local institutions and keeping talent within the region.
Fields of Study by Department
🏠 Human Settlements & Agriculture
- Agricultural Entomology (BSc)
- Agricultural Engineering (BSc)
- Industrial Engineering (National Diploma)
- Veterinary Bachelor’s degree
- Veterinary Science (BVSc)
💰 Provincial Treasury
- Accounting Bachelor’s Degree
- Students with disabilities welcome to apply
🚗 Department of Transport
- Civil Engineering (BSc)
- Maritime Studies (Bachelors)
- Transport & Logistics (BCom)
- Transport Economics (BCom Honours)
- Urban & Regional Planning (Degree)
Each department manages its own bursary applications and selection process. Apply to the department relevant to your field of study.
Eligibility Requirements
- Age: 18 to 35 years old
- Reside within KwaZulu-Natal province
- Completed Matric (Grade 12)
- Studying full-time undergraduate qualification in 2026
- Accepted at recognised SA public tertiary institution
- Studying one of the listed fields
- Preference for studies within KZN province
Note: Youth with disabilities are specifically encouraged to apply across all departments.
Expenses Covered by KwaZulu-Natal Government Bursary 2026
- Tuition fees
- Meals or stipend
- Accommodation
- Prescribed textbooks (where necessary)
Successful candidates enter into a bursary contract and must serve the relevant department for the same number of years as their study period.
How to Apply for KwaZulu-Natal Government Bursary 2026
Step 1: Collect application forms from designated locations
Step 2: Complete the form and gather all required documents
Step 3: Submit to the relevant department (based on your field of study)
⏰ Closing Date: All applications must be submitted by 15 February 2026.
Where to Collect Forms
- Operation Sukuma Sakhe War Rooms
- Department of Education District Offices
- Student Funding Office at Institutions of higher learning
- Local Municipalities
- Libraries throughout KwaZulu-Natal
Application forms are available at multiple locations throughout the province for accessibility.
Required Documents
- Certified copy of ID document
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Most recent results/transcripts (if currently studying)
- Proof of registration/acceptance at public institution
- Parents/guardians’ ID documents or death certificates
- Proof of household income and expenses
- Proof of residence in KZN (from ward councillor)
- Profiling certificate (if applicable)
Important: All copies must be certified. Proof of residence must come from a ward councillor.
Submission Addresses by Department
🏠 Human Settlements
- Post: The Director, Organisational Development, Department of Human Settlements, Private Bag X54367, Durban, 4000
- Hand Delivery: 14th Floor, Eagle Building, 353-363 Dr Pixley Kaseme Street, Durban
🌾 Agriculture & Rural Development
- Post: The Director, Human Resource Development, Private Bag X9059, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
- Hand Delivery: R103 Cedara Off-Ramp, Pietermaritzburg
🚗 Department of Transport
- Post: The Bursary Section, Private Bag X9043, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
- Hand Delivery: Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumalo House, 172 Burger Street, Pietermaritzburg
💰 Provincial Treasury
- Post: The Bursary Unit, P.O. Box 3613, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
- Hand Delivery: Treasury House, 145 Chief Albert Luthuli Road, Pietermaritzburg
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible for the KZN Government Bursary?
KZN residents aged 18-35 who have completed Matric, been accepted for undergraduate studies in listed fields at public institutions, and meet the specific department requirements.
2. Which departments offer bursaries?
Human Settlements, Agriculture & Rural Development, Transport, and Provincial Treasury – each with specific fields of study.
3. What expenses are covered?
Tuition fees, meals/stipend, accommodation, and prescribed textbooks where necessary.
4. Is there a workback obligation?
Yes, successful candidates must enter a bursary contract and serve the relevant department for the same number of years as their study period.
5. Where do I get application forms?
Operation Sukuma Sakhe War Rooms, Education District Offices, university funding offices, local municipalities, or libraries throughout KZN.
6. Can I study outside KZN province?
Yes, but preference is given to students who will pursue studies within KwaZulu-Natal province.
7. Are disabled students encouraged to apply?
Yes, youth with disabilities are specifically encouraged to apply across all departments.
8. When will I know if successful?
Successful candidates will be contacted. If no feedback within 4 months of closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
9. What proof of residence is required?
Proof of residence in KZN from a ward councillor is required for all applications.
10. Can I apply to multiple departments?
Apply only to the department relevant to your field of study. For more provincial government opportunities, explore our bursaries database or check other KZN educational opportunities.
Contact Information by Department
🏠 Human Settlements
- Ms MP Phama: 031 336 5195
- Ms X Bhengu: 031 336 5380
- Ms T Hlophe: 031 319 3700
🌾 Agriculture & Rural Development
- Mr TE Majola: 033 343 8012 / 076 940 9526
- Mrs Z Mthembu: 035 780 6727 / 064 305 8019
- Ms NNT Khambula: 033 355 9272 / 076 937 7373
🚗 Department of Transport
- Nomasonto Gwananda: 033 355 8828
- Nokwabelwa Ngcobo: 033 355 8899
- Reshika Sing: 033 355 8771
💰 Provincial Treasury
- Mrs T Suleman: 033 897 4372
- Ms C Sibisi: 033 897 4391
For more provincial government bursaries and 2026 funding opportunities, visit EduFunds.co.za
KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government
Multi-Departmental Bursary Programme
Durban & Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal