The South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) has officially opened applications for its prestigious 2025 – 2027 Post-Graduate Scholarship Programme. This initiative is geared towards providing crucial financial support to South African postgraduate students who are committed to pursuing studies in the arts, culture, and heritage sectors.
Scholarship Support Towards Tuition and Expenses
The SACO scholarship offers a financial contribution of up to R40 000 per student. While the scholarship does not cover full tuition and related academic expenses, it serves as a valuable aid for students enrolled at a South African university. This support can help relieve the financial strain associated with postgraduate studies, especially for students coming from lower to middle-income households.
This funding is intended for South African nationals only, and the applicant must already be enrolled as a student in a South African institution of higher learning. The scholarship spans the academic period from 2025 to 2027, enabling beneficiaries to focus more on their academic and research work.
Who Can Apply?
This opportunity is specifically tailored for postgraduate students—that includes those pursuing honours, master’s, or doctoral degrees—whose research or academic focus aligns with arts, culture, or heritage. Whether the applicant is conducting a case study on indigenous music forms, researching cultural policy, or exploring the role of creative industries in economic development, the SACO scholarship offers critical financial backing.
However, there are a few important rules to follow:
- The application must be typed; handwritten applications will not be accepted.
- All sections of the application form must be fully completed.
- Supporting documents must be attached as required.
Application Process and Deadline
The application process has been made accessible and user-friendly. Interested students can download the official application form through SACO’s website at:
Once the application form is completed and all necessary attachments are gathered, the applicant must email it directly to:
- Mr. C du Plessis at Chadwin.DuPlessis@mandela.ac.za
Applicants are strongly encouraged to ensure their documents are submitted before the final deadline.
Closing Date: 31 August 2025 at 12h00 (Midday)
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, so punctuality and thoroughness are essential.
About the South African Cultural Observatory (SACO)
The South African Cultural Observatory is a national research project established by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture. It is hosted by Nelson Mandela University, in partnership with Rhodes University and the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
SACO’s primary mission is to develop a comprehensive database and research network that supports the cultural and creative economy in South Africa. Through research, scholarships, and collaborative partnerships, SACO plays a vital role in shaping the future of arts and culture in the country.
Building the Future of South Africa’s Creative Sector
By supporting students who are researching or working within South Africa’s rich and diverse cultural space, SACO aims to nurture the next generation of cultural leaders and thinkers. These are the individuals who will contribute to the development of inclusive policies, creative industries, and cultural preservation in the years to come.
Scholarships like this are especially important in helping students from underrepresented communities to access opportunities that can change their lives, their communities, and ultimately, the country.
Check also: Columbus Stainless Bursary Programme (2026)
This is a rare and valuable opportunity for students who are serious about pursuing research and studies in the arts, culture, and heritage fields. Applicants are encouraged to start gathering their documents and completing the forms as early as possible to avoid last-minute challenges.