The 2026 Traxtion Bursary is now open for applications, offering life-changing financial support to young women who aspire to build a career in the rail industry. This transformative opportunity supports studies in technical and engineering fields at TVET colleges across South Africa.
- What is the Traxtion Bursary?
- Who Can Apply?
- Fields Covered by the Traxtion Bursary
- A Step Towards Rail Industry Transformation
- How to Apply for the Traxtion Bursary
- Why Choose a Career in the Rail Industry?
- Traxtion: A Legacy of Innovation
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Empowering Female Technical Talent
What is the Traxtion Bursary?
The Traxtion Bursary, officially known as the TraxWAGON Bursary Programme, is a targeted education initiative by Traxtion—a leader in rail solutions across Sub-Saharan Africa. It focuses on empowering young women from disadvantaged communities to gain critical technical skills.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for this bursary, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Identify as female
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Come from a previously disadvantaged background
- Reside in Gauteng, North West, Free State, Mpumalanga, or the Northern Cape
- Be in financial need
- Have completed Matric or be currently in Matric
- Hold a minimum average of 60% in Matric
- Be registered or accepted at a TVET college registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
RELATED: Apply for the 2026 Marula Bursary in South Africa
Fields Covered by the Traxtion Bursary
The bursary supports full-time studies in high-demand fields critical to the rail sector. These include:
- Boilermaking
- Diesel Mechanics
- Electrical Engineering
- Fitters and Turners
- Mechanical Engineering
- Supply Chain and Logistics
- Warehouse and Inventory Management
These areas align with Traxtion’s operational needs and its long-term commitment to skills development in the rail sector.
A Step Towards Rail Industry Transformation
The TraxWAGON bursary programme is more than financial aid. It’s part of a broader mission to promote diversity and gender equity in the male-dominated rail industry.
At Traxtion, we believe that empowering young women with technical skills is key to transforming Africa’s rail industry,” says a company representative.
By investing in young women from historically disadvantaged backgrounds, Traxtion is directly contributing to socio-economic upliftment and long-term infrastructure development.
How to Apply for the Traxtion Bursary
Applications for the 2026 academic year must be completed online via the official portal:
Required documents include:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Matric results or certificate
- Latest academic transcript (if applicable)
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a registered TVET college
- Proof of address
- Letter of recommendation (from your principal or lecturer)
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Deadline: 9 January 2026
Late applications will not be considered.
Why Choose a Career in the Rail Industry?
Rail is the backbone of Africa’s trade and logistics. As the industry modernises, the demand for skilled technicians and engineers continues to grow.
In South Africa, rail forms a crucial link for transporting mining, agricultural and manufactured goods. By entering this sector, graduates not only secure stable employment but also help drive the nation’s economy forward.
According to Stats SA, transport contributes nearly 8% to GDP, and the rail sector is a key component. This makes rail-related qualifications highly valuable.
Traxtion: A Legacy of Innovation
For over 30 years, Traxtion has delivered impactful rail solutions across Sub-Saharan Africa. The company is known for:
- Investing in modern rolling stock
- Transforming track infrastructure projects
- Creating job opportunities in local communities
- Offering high-quality rail services for freight and logistics
With a solid financial base, Traxtion continues to lead in rail engineering and infrastructure, making it an ideal partner for long-term career growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the Traxtion Bursary cover all study costs?
While the Traxtion Bursary 2026 aims to cover major educational expenses, applicants should confirm the exact benefits with Traxtion upon selection.
Can I apply if I’m still in Grade 12 this year?
Yes. Matriculants in 2025 can apply, provided they meet all the academic and demographic requirements. Ensure you achieve a minimum 60% average in your final Matric results.
Is the Traxtion Bursary only for Gauteng residents?
No. Although Gauteng is included, the Traxtion Bursary programme is also open to female students in North West, Free State, Mpumalanga, and the Northern Cape. These are regions where Traxtion actively operates and invests in skills development.
What is the deadline to apply for the 2026 Traxtion Bursary?
Applications close on 9 January 2026. Late applications will not be accepted, so it is advisable to apply well before the deadline.
Empowering Female Technical Talent
Women remain underrepresented in South Africa’s technical fields. The Traxtion Bursary directly addresses this gap by funding women who are passionate about engineering, mechanics, and supply chain roles.
This is in line with the National Development Plan (NDP 2030), which emphasises inclusive growth and the empowerment of women in technical industries.