South Africa offers a variety of bursary programs designed to support students in achieving their educational goals across different fields of study. These bursaries are provided by the government, private sector companies, and non-profit organizations. Here are some of the common and prestigious bursaries available in South Africa:
1. **National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS):** NSFAS is one of the most well-known government-funded programs, providing financial assistance to students from poor and working-class families who wish to study at public universities or TVET colleges.
2. **Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme:** Specifically aimed at promoting teaching as a profession, this bursary covers various expenses for students pursuing a teaching degree, as discussed earlier.
3. **The South African Revenue Service (SARS) Bursary:** For students interested in pursuing careers in tax-related fields, SARS offers bursaries covering tuition, accommodation, books, and meals.
4. **Eskom Bursary Scheme:** Eskom, the national electricity utility, offers bursaries for studies in engineering, accounting, commerce, and IT, among others, with a focus on fields relevant to the energy sector.
5. **Department of Social Development Bursary:** Aimed at addressing the shortage of skilled workers in the social work profession in South Africa, this bursary is offered to students pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work degree.
6. **Sasol Bursary Scheme:** Sasol, an integrated chemical and energy company, offers bursaries to students studying engineering, science, and accounting at undergraduate level.
7. **Thuthuka Bursary Fund:** Established by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), this fund aims to support African and Coloured students who aspire to become Chartered Accountants.
8. **South African Institute of Race Relations (SAIRR) Bursaries:** These bursaries are awarded regardless of race, and cover all fields of study for undergraduates who show academic potential and are in financial need.
9. **The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship:** While more of a scholarship than a bursary, it supports postgraduate studies for exceptional students demonstrating leadership qualities, and covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a living stipend.
10. **The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship:** Focused on promoting entrepreneurship among young South Africans, the fellowship provides funding for university studies as well as access to mentorship and a community of like-minded individuals.
These bursaries are highly competitive and each has its own set of eligibility criteria, including but not limited to, academic performance, field of study, financial need, and sometimes, a commitment to service upon completion of studies. Applicants are encouraged to research each bursary’s specific requirements and deadlines to ensure their application aligns with the funder’s objectives.