The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme 2026 offers financial support to South African students pursuing studies in engineering, built environment, and other scarce skills identified by the Department of Infrastructure. Established by the Western Cape Government in 2006, the programme provides tuition, accommodation, study materials, and structured career support. Its goal is to develop future professionals while prioritizing disadvantaged youth, including persons with disabilities, financially challenged learners, women, and students from rural areas.
Eligible Fields of Study
Applicants can pursue full-time degrees or diplomas in the following areas:
- Architecture
- Construction Management
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current)
- Mechanical Engineering
- Quantity Surveying
- City and Regional Planning
- Geomatics
- Property Studies
Additional disciplines may be considered if classified as scarce and critical skills by the Department of Infrastructure.
What the Bursary Covers
Successful applicants will receive full support that includes:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals (or transport allowance)
- Prescribed books and materials
- Academic and career development programmes
Where the Bursary Can Be Taken
The bursary is valid for studies at the following higher education institutions in the Western Cape:
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Stellenbosch University
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme 2026, you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be accepted or intend to study full-time at a recognised higher education institution in the Western Cape
While preference is given to disadvantaged groups, all eligible students may apply.
Obligations and Work-Back Requirement
The bursary operates on a contractual basis requiring recipients to work back one year in the public service or with partner companies for every year of funding received. During studies, bursary holders must also:
- Attend compulsory workshops, meetings, and events
- Participate in outreach initiatives
- Complete experiential training such as internships
This ensures both professional development and employment opportunities after graduation.
Application Process and Timeline
Applications usually open from 1 April to 31 August each year. As of September 2025, the application period for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme 2026 has closed. Updates for the next intake will be published on the official website.
How to Apply:
- Complete the online application via the official bursary page: Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme
Contact Details
- Telephone: 021 483 9545 / 021 483 0964
- Cell: 081 040 6562
- Email: doibursary@westerncape.gov.za
- Address: 23rd Floor, 9 Lower Burg Street, The Box, Cape Town, 8001
The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme 2026 is a vital opportunity for aspiring professionals in engineering and built environment fields. It not only funds your studies but also provides structured career pathways through internships and employment. Stay updated on future application windows and prepare your documents in advance to apply as soon as applications reopen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who qualifies for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme 2026?
South African citizens accepted or intending to study full-time in approved fields at Western Cape institutions.
2. What expenses does the bursary cover?
It covers tuition, accommodation or transport, prescribed books, and support programmes.
3. Which universities are supported by this bursary?
UCT, CPUT, and Stellenbosch University.
4. Do bursary holders need to work back after graduation?
Yes. Recipients must work in the public sector or partner organisations for one year per year of funding.
5. Can students from outside the Western Cape apply?
Yes, applications are open nationally, although preference is given to Western Cape residents.
6. When will the next application cycle open?
Applications usually run from April to August each year. The exact 2027 intake dates will be confirmed on the official website.
7. Where can I get more information?
Visit the official Masakh’iSizwe bursary page or contact the Department of Infrastructure directly.
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