The Western Cape Government Health and Wellness Department is proud to announce its Full-Time Bursary Programme, aimed at providing financial support for those seeking to pursue a career in the healthcare sector. This initiative offers an excellent opportunity for unemployed individuals in the Western Cape to gain essential qualifications and contribute to the province’s healthcare needs.
The Purpose of the Bursary Programme
The Full-Time Bursary Programme is designed to assist students by providing funding for selected health science qualifications. This support is part of the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness’s commitment to addressing the skills shortages in the healthcare sector. The funding is specifically directed at qualifications that are in high demand to ensure a qualified workforce.
Eligibility and Selection Process
The bursary is available to individuals residing in the Western Cape, with an emphasis on those who are unemployed. Due to the limited availability of funding, applicants will go through a competitive selection process to determine eligibility. The department considers a variety of factors to identify deserving candidates who are passionate about contributing to the healthcare sector.
Once a bursary is awarded, recipients are expected to complete their studies and apply for available positions within the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness. Bursary holders are required to work within the department for a designated period to “pay back” their bursary through service to the healthcare system.
Health Science Study Fields Supported
The Western Cape Government Health & Wellness bursary programme supports various health science qualifications, ensuring alignment with the healthcare sector’s needs. The following fields are eligible for bursary funding:
- B Tech Nursing
- BSC Radiography in Diagnostic
- BSC Radiography in Ultrasound
- BSC Radiography in Therapy
- Degree in Nursing
- Degree in Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery
- Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy
- Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy
- Degree in Medicine
- Degree in Speech Therapy
- Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy
- Higher Certificate R169 Nursing
- Diploma in Nursing R171 (General Nurse)
- R174 Nursing
- Higher Certificate in Emergency Care Assistant
- National Diploma in Emergency Medical Care
Please note that other health science study fields may be added or removed annually based on the evolving needs of the Department of Health and Wellness.
Application Dates and Process
Applications for the Full-Time Bursary Programme are now open. The application period runs from 02 June 2025 to 30 September 2025.
To apply, follow these steps:
- Register on the bursary portal.
- Log in using your username and password.
- Click the “Apply Online“ button to start your application.
- Complete the following steps:
- Step 1: Personal Information
- Step 2: Guardian Information
- Step 3: Previous Qualifications
- Step 4: Application
- Step 5: Upload Required Documents
Ensure all required documents are ready, scanned, and appropriately named before uploading. Missing or incorrectly formatted documents may delay your application.
Bursary Awarding Criteria
Bursaries are awarded in collaboration with higher education institutions based on their admission criteria. These partnerships help ensure that the training provided aligns with the specific needs of the healthcare sector, with a focus on training healthcare professionals who can contribute effectively to service delivery in the province.
Check also: IMESA Bursary Programme 2026
By offering bursaries, the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness aims to not only address current skills shortages but also ensure a sustainable and well-trained workforce for the future. Bursary holders are guaranteed an opportunity to gain work experience in their respective fields during their community service period, providing them with the skills and experience needed to excel in the healthcare industry.
The Full-Time Bursary Programme is an excellent opportunity for Western Cape residents looking to start or advance their careers in healthcare. It provides essential funding, support, and a clear pathway to meaningful employment within the provincial healthcare system.