The KwaZulu-Natal Government is offering a range of bursary opportunities for the 2026 academic year, giving young South Africans a powerful financial stepping stone into higher education. If you’re a student residing in KZN and aiming for a future in sectors like agriculture, engineering, or public finance, now is your chance to apply.
This bursary programme reflects the province’s commitment to developing youth and ensuring equal access to education.
What You Need to Know About the KwaZulu-Natal Government
KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa’s second most populous province, boasts a diverse economy and vibrant culture. Formed in 1994 through the merger of Natal Province and the KwaZulu homeland, it is home to major cities such as Durban and Pietermaritzburg.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government comprises multiple departments, including Education, Health, Agriculture, Transport, and Treasury. Each of these departments plays a crucial role in the bursary programme by offering support to students pursuing qualifications in critical skill areas.
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Bursary Opportunities 2026: What Fields Are Covered?
The 2026 bursary programme caters to a wide range of study fields, primarily aligned with key departments within the KZN Government. Applicants must reside in KwaZulu-Natal and study full-time at a public university or TVET college.
Fields Covered by Department:
Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
- Agricultural Entomology (BSc)
- Agricultural Engineering (BSc)
- Industrial Engineering (National Diploma)
- Veterinary Science (BVSc)
- Veterinary (Bachelors degree)
Department of Human Settlements
- Construction Studies
Department of Provincial Treasury
- Accounting (Bachelor’s Degree)
- Students with disabilities may apply for any related field of study
Department of Transport
- Civil Engineering (BSc)
- Maritime Studies (Bachelors Degree)
- Transport and Logistics (BCom)
- Transport Economics (BCom Honours)
- Urban and Regional Planning (Degree)
These fields represent South Africa’s most critical economic and infrastructure needs, making this bursary a smart move for students with future-focused goals.
Who Qualifies for the Bursary?
To apply for the KwaZulu-Natal Government Bursary, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Be aged between 18 and 35 years
- Reside within KwaZulu-Natal
- Have completed Matric
- Intend to study full-time in 2026 towards an undergraduate qualification
- Be accepted or provisionally accepted at a recognised public tertiary institution
- Preference will be given to those studying within the province
- Youth with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply
How to Apply for the KZN Government Bursary
Applicants must collect a bursary application form from any of the following locations:
- Local municipalities
- Public libraries
- Department of Education District Offices
- Operation Sukuma Sakhe War Rooms
- Student Funding Offices at higher learning institutions
When filling out the application form, use “https://www.nasi-ispani.co.za/” in the section asking how you heard about the programme.
Required Supporting Documents:
Submit clear certified copies of the following documents:
- South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Latest academic results or transcripts
- Acceptance letter from a public tertiary institution
- Parent/guardian ID or death certificate
- Household income proof (payslips, grant slips, or unemployment letter)
- Proof of residence from a ward councillor
- Profiling certificate (if applicable)
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Where to Submit Your Application
Department of Human Settlements
- Post: The Director, Organisational Development, Private Bag X54367, Durban, 4000
- Hand Delivery: 14th Floor, Eagle Building, 353-363 Dr Pixley Kaseme Street, Durban
Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
- Post: Human Resource Development, Private Bag X9059, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
- Hand Delivery: R103 Cedara Off-Ramp, Pietermaritzburg
Department of Transport
- Post: Bursary Section, Private Bag X9043, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
- Hand Delivery: Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumalo House, 172 Burger Street, Pietermaritzburg
Department of Provincial Treasury
- Post: Bursary Unit, P.O. Box 3613, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
- Hand Delivery: Treasury House, 145 Chief Albert Luthuli Road, Pietermaritzburg
Application Deadline
🗓 Closing Date: 15 February 2026
Late applications will not be considered. Make sure your full application, along with all required documents, is submitted before this date.
Who to Contact for Queries
If you need help or have questions, contact the relevant department:
Human Settlements
- Ms MP Phama: 031 336 5195
- Ms X Bhengu: 031 336 5380
- Ms T Hlophe: 031 319 3700
Agriculture and Rural Development
- Mr TE Majola: 033 343 8012 / 076 940 9526
- Mrs Z Mthembu: 035 780 6727 / 064 305 8019
- Ms NNT Khambula: 033 355 9272 / 076 937 7373
Transport
- Nomasonto Gwananda: 033 355 8828
- Nokwabelwa Ngcobo: 033 355 8899
- Reshika Sing: 033 355 8771
Provincial Treasury
- Mrs T Suleman: 033 897 4372
- Ms C Sibisi: 033 897 4391
FAQs – Bursary Opportunities 2026
Can I apply if I’m studying outside KwaZulu-Natal?
Yes, but preference is given to those studying within the province.
Are postgraduate students eligible?
No. The bursary is only for undergraduate qualifications.
Do I need to reapply each year?
Yes. Bursaries are typically awarded on an annual basis, depending on academic performance and funding availability.
Can I submit an incomplete application?
No. Incomplete applications will be disqualified.
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The KwaZulu-Natal Government’s bursary programme for 2026 is a gateway to higher education for many deserving young people. It’s an opportunity not just for financial support, but also for future job placement within public service sectors.
If you’re passionate about contributing to your community, now’s the time to invest in your future. Apply before 15 February 2026 and take that first step towards academic and career success.
