Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary South Africa For 2026. Are you a South African student with a passion for engineering, geology, or environmental studies? The Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary South Africa for 2026 offers a powerful opportunity for ambitious learners to receive financial support for their academic journey. Whether you are from the Joe Taolo Gaetsewe District in the Northern Cape or a child of a Hotazel Manganese Mine employee, this bursary could change your life.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary, including eligibility requirements, fields of study, the application process, and the documents you’ll need to prepare.
Who Was Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi?
Before diving into the bursary details, it’s essential to understand the man behind the name. Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi was a respected leader and former Non-Executive Director at South32 before his passing in January 2020. He left a legacy of commitment to education, transformation, and upliftment in the mining and metals industry. In his honour, South32 has renamed its bursary programme to the Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary.
About South32
South32 is a global mining and metals company established in 2015. Headquartered in Perth, Australia, the company operates across South Africa, Mozambique, Australia, and Colombia. South32 mines and produces a wide range of commodities including:
- Aluminium
- Bauxite
- Alumina
- Nickel
- Zinc
- Manganese
- Silver
- Lead
- Metallurgical coal
- Thermal coal
- Coking coal
These commodities are essential to everyday life, from building infrastructure like roads and bridges, to powering homes, manufacturing packaging, and fuelling vehicles.
Overview of the Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary Programme
The Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary South Africa for 2026 is a structured initiative designed to support talented students pursuing tertiary education in key fields. This bursary is especially focused on residents of the Joe Taolo Gaetsewe (JTG) District in the Northern Cape and children of employees working at Hotazel Manganese Mine (HMM).
Fields Covered
The bursary provides support in the following disciplines:
| Field of Study | Degree or Diploma Options Available |
|---|---|
| Chemical Engineering | Degree/Diploma |
| Civil Engineering | Degree/Diploma |
| Economic and Management Science | Degree/Diploma |
| Electrical Engineering | Degree/Diploma |
| Geology | Degree/Diploma |
| Health, Safety & Environment | Degree/Diploma |
| Industrial Engineering | Degree/Diploma |
| Mechanical Engineering | Degree/Diploma |
| Metallurgical Engineering | Degree/Diploma |
| Mine Surveying | Degree/Diploma |
| Mining | Degree/Diploma |
Other relevant fields of study may also be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Be a resident of the Joe Taolo Gaetsewe District (Northern Cape), or
- be a child of a Hotazel Manganese Mine employee
- Must be under the age of 21 at the time of application
- Must have completed Matric
- Intend to study full-time toward a Diploma or Degree in a listed field
- Be accepted or currently studying at an accredited tertiary institution in South Africa
- Possess a strong academic record
- Preference is given to designated groups per South32’s Employment Equity Plan, especially from JTG and the broader Northern Cape
Selection Process and Renewal Policy
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews and assessments. The bursary is awarded for one academic year at a time. However, recipients may apply for renewal, which will be granted based on:
- Academic performance
- Personal conduct
- Ongoing eligibility compliance
Benefits of the Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary
Recipients of the Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary South Africa for 2026 can expect coverage for:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation costs
- Prescribed textbooks
- Meals and a monthly stipend
- Possible vacation work and mentorship opportunities within South32
This comprehensive support enables students to focus fully on their studies and personal development.
How to Apply for the Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary South Africa for 2026
Application Process
All applications must be submitted online through the official portal:
Important Notes:
- First, Register an Account, then Login to apply
- Use the Promotional Code:
HMMCOMM24 - Mention “zaupdates.co.za/” in the “How did you hear about this bursary?” section
- If you lack internet access, you may hand-deliver your CV to the chief’s tribal council or the mine offices
Required Supporting Documents
Make sure to upload or deliver clear copies of the following:
| Document Required | Notes |
|---|---|
| Certified copy of your ID | South African ID only |
| Matric Certificate (certified copy) | Or final Grade 12 results if applicable |
| Academic transcript (if studying) | On official institution letterhead |
| Admission letter for 2026 | On official institution letterhead |
| Proof of residence | Municipal bill or letter from Chief/Council member |
| Curriculum Vitae (CV) | Brief with academic and personal background |
| Proof of parent employment at HMM (if applicable) | Unabridged birth certificate + parent’s ID |
Applications missing any of the required documents may be disqualified.
Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary Closing Date
- Deadline to apply: 31 July 2025
Late applications will not be accepted, so ensure all documents are submitted before the deadline to avoid disappointment.
Contact Details for Queries
For more information or questions related to the Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary, contact the official administrators:
- Contact Person: Mr Liyanda Mkhabo
- Email: [email protected]
Why Choose the Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary?
There are many bursaries available in South Africa, but this programme stands out for its deep commitment to community upliftment, academic excellence, and honoring a legacy of transformation.
- Focused on Northern Cape students and HMM employee families
- Offers full financial and academic support
- Connects students with real-world mining and engineering opportunities
- Encourages youth development and diversity in South Africa’s mining sector
FAQs about Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary South Africa for 2026
Can I apply if I live outside the Northern Cape?
Only applicants residing in the Joe Taolo Gaetsewe District or children of Hotazel Manganese Mine employees are eligible. Others will not be considered.
What if I’m turning 21 later in the year?
Applicants must be under 21 years of age at the time of submitting the application. If you’re turning 21 after applying, you are still eligible.
Can I apply if I’m studying in a field not listed?
Yes, other fields may be considered based on merit and relevance. You are encouraged to apply with strong motivation and academic results.
Conclusion
The Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi South32 Bursary South Africa for 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity for young South Africans in the Northern Cape and children of HMM employees to achieve their academic goals. If you’re passionate about engineering, science, or management, and meet the criteria, don’t miss your chance to apply before 31 July 2025.
