The Sibona Ilanga Trust invites South African citizens residing within a 50 km radius of the De Aar Solar Power Plant to apply for its 2026 bursary. This award supports approved studies at accredited public or private TVET colleges, universities of technology, or academic institutions—including NQF Level 6 technical studies, national diplomas, and degrees.

About the Bursary Provider

The Sibona Ilanga Trust is a community trust owning shares in the De Aar Solar Power Plant, dedicating its revenues to uplift local communities through education funding. Its bursary programme is administered by StudyTrust, ensuring equitable access to tertiary opportunities for learners in the Northern Cape region 

Fields Covered

The bursary supports full-time study in any field—including:

  • NQF Level 6 technical or skills training programmes (e.g., plumbing, bricklaying)
  • National Diplomas
  • Undergraduate Degrees

Expenses Covered

Award amounts are determined based on individual needs and may include:

  • Tuition, registration and exam fees
  • Accommodation in tertiary residence or equivalent
  • Meals
  • Learning materials (textbooks, stationery)

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following:

  • South African citizen
  • Resident within a 50 km radius of the De Aar Solar Power Plant
  • Accepted or provisionally accepted at a recognised SA tertiary institution
  • Pursuing an NQF Level 6 technical qualification, national diploma or degree
  • Demonstrated financial need

How to Apply

Submit your application via the StudyTrust online portal between 1 May and 31 October annually. You may also download and submit a hardcopy form via email or in person:

Ensure you upload certified copies of:

  • ID document
  • Proof of residence
  • Acceptance letter from institution (on letterhead with student number)
  • Proof of household income

Enter “www.bursaryforms.co.za” when asked how you heard about the bursary 

Closing Date

31 October 2025. Applications submitted after this date or incomplete will not be accepted.

Contact the Bursary Provider

StudyTrust (administrators)
Email: b.ndlovu@studytrust.org.za
Alternate contact: anita@sibonailangatrust.co.za
Portal: studytrust.org.za

1. Who is eligible to apply?
South African citizens residing within a 50 km radius of the De Aar Solar Power Plant, accepted at a recognised SA tertiary institution, demonstrating financial need.
2. Which fields of study are supported?
All fields at NQF Level 6 (technical/skills training), national diplomas, and undergraduate degrees are eligible for support.
3. What expenses does the bursary cover?
Depending on need, it may cover tuition, registration/exam fees, accommodation, meals, textbooks, and stationery.
4. Are recent matriculants allowed?),
Yes—even those who completed NSC or NTC in previous years may apply if meeting eligibility criteria.
5. How do I apply?
Apply online via StudyTrust’s portal between 1 May and 31 October, or submit hardcopy by email or at the Ethembeni Community Centre in De Aar.
6. What documents are required?
Certified ID copy, proof of residence, acceptance letter, and proof of household income are compulsory.
7. When is the deadline?
31 October 2025. Incomplete or late applications won’t be considered.
8. How are applicants selected?
Based on academic performance (most recent Matric or highest qualification) and demonstrated financial need.
9. Can I apply if I live outside the 50 km radius?
No. Residency within the 50 km radius of the De Aar Solar facility is mandatory for eligibility.
10. Who do I contact if I have queries?
Email b.ndlovu@studytrust.org.za or anita@sibonailangatrust.co.za for assistance.