NUMSA Bursary South Africa For 2026. If you’re a South African student aspiring to pursue higher education but facing financial challenges, the NUMSA Bursary South Africa for 2026 presents a remarkable opportunity. Offered by the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA), this bursary programme supports dependants of NUMSA members and staff, aiming to promote education and skills development in critical sectors.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the NUMSA Bursary South Africa for 2026, including the background, fields of study, eligibility requirements, application process.
About NUMSA: A Legacy of Worker Empowerment
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) was established in 1987 through a strategic merger of four key unions:
| Merged Union | Full Name |
|---|---|
| MICWU | Motor Industry Combined Workers Union |
| MAWU | Metal and Allied Workers Union |
| NAAWU | National Automobile and Allied Workers Union |
| UMMAWOSA | United Metal, Mining and Allied Workers of South Africa |
Today, NUMSA stands as the largest trade union in South Africa, representing over 338,000 members. The union plays a pivotal role in bargaining for workers’ rights and also focuses on gender equality, environmental and health safety, HIV/AIDS awareness, adult education, member benefits, IT services, and international representation.
Overview of the NUMSA Bursary South Africa for 2026
The NUMSA Bursary South Africa for 2026 is specifically designed to provide financial assistance to the children or legal dependants of NUMSA members or staff who wish to pursue full-time tertiary education. These bursaries aim to ease the financial burden on families and empower youth through education.
Fields Covered by the NUMSA Bursary
The bursary covers a wide range of fields of study, focusing on disciplines essential to South Africa’s development:
| Degree/Diploma | Majors or Specialisations |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) | Science and Mathematics |
| Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) | Accounting, Financial Management, Auditing |
| Bachelor of Laws (LLB) | Law and Legal Studies |
| BSc or BEng (Engineering) | Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Industrial, Metallurgical, Mechanical |
| Computer Science/IT | Software Development, Systems Analysis |
| Biomedical Technology | Health Sciences, Laboratory Technology |
These fields align with the nation’s economic and social priorities, ensuring that beneficiaries are well-positioned for high-demand careers.
Why Choose the NUMSA Bursary?
There are many bursaries available in South Africa, but the NUMSA Bursary stands out for several reasons:
- It’s exclusively for NUMSA families, reinforcing community support.
- It covers in-demand, career-oriented study fields.
- It focuses on financially disadvantaged yet academically deserving students.
- It promotes transformation and access to higher education.
By offering financial relief, this bursary ensures that economic barriers don’t prevent students from realising their academic potential.
Who Can Apply? Key Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the NUMSA Bursary South Africa for 2026, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be a dependent of a NUMSA member or staff
- Must be currently in Matric (Grade 12) or already have completed Matric
- Must intend to study or currently be studying in one of the listed fields
- Must plan to study full-time at a University or University of Technology
- Must demonstrate proven financial need
These criteria ensure that the bursary targets those who truly require assistance and are committed to their educational journey.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
To apply for the NUMSA Bursary South Africa for 2026, candidates must follow a structured process. Applications are only accepted by post, so careful preparation is essential.
- Download the official NUMSA Bursary Application Form (available in PDF format).
- Complete the form with accurate and up-to-date information.
- Attach all required supporting documents (see below).
- Post the full application package to the official bursary address.
Required Supporting Documents
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Applicant’s ID document | Certified copy |
| NUMSA Member’s ID document | Certified copy |
| Proof of Income | Latest payslips from parents/guardians |
| Passport-size Photo | Attach to the application |
| Academic Record (Matric) | Latest results or past 2 years’ reports (certified) |
| Matric Certificate | If already completed (certified copy) |
| Tertiary Academic Record | For first-year and senior students (certified) |
Important: Incomplete applications or missing documents will be disqualified.
Postal Address for Submission
All completed applications must be posted to:
mathematicaCopyEditMbuyi Ngwenda Bursary Fund
P.O. Box 787352
Sandton
2146
South Africa
Note: No faxed or emailed applications will be accepted.
Deadline: When to Submit Your Application
The closing date for the NUMSA Bursary South Africa for 2026 is 30 September annually.
Late applications will not be considered, so it is crucial to prepare and post your application well in advance of the deadline.
Contact Information
For further inquiries regarding the bursary, applicants can directly reach out to NUMSA through the following contact details:
- Contact Person: Gezile (Bursary Office)
- Phone: 011 783 3578
- Email: [email protected]
Prompt communication can help clarify doubts about the application process or required documentation.
FAQs About NUMSA Bursary South Africa for 2026
Who is eligible for the NUMSA Bursary?
Only South African citizens who are dependants of NUMSA members or staff and who plan to study full-time in the specified fields are eligible. Financial need and academic merit are also key selection criteria.
Can I apply if I’m not a NUMSA member’s child?
No. The bursary is strictly for dependants of NUMSA members or staff. Applications from external candidates will not be considered.
Can I email my application?
No. Applications must be sent by post only to the official address. Emailed or faxed applications will automatically be rejected.
Conclusion
The NUMSA Bursary South Africa for 2026 is more than just financial aid it’s a gateway to academic success and professional empowerment. If you are eligible and ready to commit to your studies in one of the supported fields, this bursary could be your stepping stone toward a brighter future. Apply early, submit all required documents, and take full advantage of this life-changing opportunity.
