The uMngeni‑uThukela Water Board is now accepting applications for its 2026 Bursary Programme—empowering talented South African students from KwaZulu‑Natal to pursue studies in engineering and science fields critical to the water sector.

About the Bursary Provider

uMngeni‑uThukela Water, formerly Umgeni Water, is a state-owned enterprise established in 1974 and is KwaZulu‑Natal’s largest bulk potable water supplier. The organisation plays a vital role in water infrastructure and service delivery, while investing in future engineers and scientists.

Fields Covered

The bursary supports full-time studies in the following disciplines:

  • Chemical Engineering (BSc)
  • Civil Engineering (BEng)
  • Industrial Engineering (BEng)
  • Mechanical Engineering (BEng)
  • Mechatronics Engineering (BEng)
  • Hydrology (BSc)
  • Microbiology (BSc)
  • Finance (BCom)—subject to spot availability.

Expenses Covered

The bursary covers:

  • Registration & tuition fees
  • Accommodation & meals
  • Prescribed textbooks & stationery
  • Optional laptop allowance (where applicable)

All bursars must complete a service contract with the Water Board.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • South African citizen
  • Reside in KwaZulu-Natal (preferably)
  • Completed Matric and be in 2nd–4th year undergraduate
  • Enrolled full-time at an accredited South African institution
  • Strong academic record (≥50–60% average)
  • Proven financial need
  • Willing to fulfill a service/contract obligation

How to Apply

To apply, download the official bursary form from the uMngeni-uThukela Water website.

Submit certified copies of:

  • ID document
  • Matric certificate
  • Latest academic transcript
  • Proof of registration/enrollment
  • CV and motivational letter
  • Proof of residence (traditional authority or municipal letter)
  • Proof of income (if available)

Send applications via email to graduaterecruitment@uuw.co.za with subject “uMngeni‑uThukela Water Bursary 2026” or via post to:

Skills Development Facilitator
PO Box 9, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
Tel: 033 341 1093

Closing Date

13 June 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Contact the Bursary Provider

uMngeni‑uThukela Water
Skills Development Facilitator
Tel: 033 341 1093 / 033 341 1208
Email: graduaterecruitment@uuw.co.za
Website: umgeni.co.za

1. Who qualifies for the bursary?
South African citizens in 2nd–4th year at a SA institution, strong academics, financial need, residing in KwaZulu‑Natal.
2. What study fields are covered?
Engineering disciplines (Chemical, Civil, Industrial, Mechanical, Mechatronics), Hydrology, Microbiology, and occasionally Finance.
3. What costs are covered?
Tuition, registration, accommodation, meals, textbooks/stationery, and possibly a laptop grant.
4. Do I need to work for the Water Board?
Yes—you’ll sign a contract to work for uMngeni‑uThukela Water for a period equal to your bursary duration.
5. How do I apply?
Complete the bursary form, attach certified documents, and email to graduaterecruitment@uuw.co.za or post to the Skills Development office in Pietermaritzburg.
6. When is the closing date?
13 June 2025. No late or incomplete applications accepted.
7. What academic average is required?
Undergraduates typically need at least 50–60% average; strong academic performance is essential.
8. Is preference given to certain students?
Yes—students living in KZN and those with financial need are prioritized.
9. Can first-year students apply?
No—the bursary is only open to 2nd, 3rd, and final-year undergraduates.
10. Who can I contact for assistance?
Contact the Skills Development Facilitator at Tel: 033 341 1093 or email graduaterecruitment@uuw.co.za.