Khulisa Academy Bursary South Africa For 2026

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Khulisa Academy Bursary South Africa For 2026. If you’re a young South African passionate about technology, the Khulisa Academy Bursary South Africa for 2026 could be your gateway to an exciting career in High-Performance Computing (HPC) and IT. Designed to uplift talented but previously disadvantaged students, this programme goes beyond mere financial aid. It offers intensive training, personal growth opportunities, and a direct pathway to lucrative employment in South Africa’s rapidly expanding tech sector.

Let’s explore what makes this bursary unique, who can apply, how to meet eligibility criteria, and why this could be the perfect stepping stone for your future.

About Khulisa Academy: Nurturing Future Tech Leaders

The word Khulisa comes from the isiZulu language, meaning “to nurture.” True to its name, the Khulisa Academy is dedicated to nurturing South Africa’s next generation of technology leaders.

Founded by Dell, the academy focuses on High-Performance Computing (HPC) a crucial field that involves pooling computing power to tackle large-scale problems in engineering, science, and business. Through this, students aren’t just learning to use technology; they’re being prepared to solve some of the world’s toughest challenges.

Why the Khulisa Academy Bursary Stands Out

Unlike traditional bursaries that simply pay for your tuition, the Khulisa Academy Bursary South Africa for 2026 offers a holistic two-year programme that combines funding with rigorous, hands-on training. This ensures students graduate with both academic qualifications and practical skills that make them highly sought after by employers.

FeatureDetails
Duration2 years intensive training
Focus AreaHigh-Performance Computing (HPC)
Founded byDell Technologies
LocationJohannesburg, South Africa
OutcomeDirect employment opportunities after completion

Each year, graduates of the programme are headhunted by leading tech firms, demonstrating just how valuable this experience is.

More About the Khulisa Academy Bursary Programme – Selection Process

To maintain its high standards, the Khulisa Academy has a rigorous selection process. Candidates undergo a mandatory psychometrics test. This helps assess not only their aptitude for an IT career but also their attitude and ability to thrive under the pressures of the tech industry.

This means only candidates who are genuinely passionate and capable will secure a spot, maintaining the academy’s reputation for excellence.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

Before diving into the application process, it’s essential to know whether you qualify. The Khulisa Academy has clearly outlined requirements to ensure applicants are prepared for the challenges of the HPC programme.

Basic Eligibility for the Khulisa Academy Bursary:

RequirementDetails
CitizenshipMust be a South African citizen (by birth)
Age18-24 years old, or up to 30 if living with a disability
Academic resultsMinimum 60% in Pure Mathematics, Physical Science, English, and IT-related subjects
Other educationOR completed a valid IT Diploma/Degree or be in the final year
LanguageEnglish must be at least your second language
EmploymentMust NOT be employed (full-time or part-time)
Other fundingMust NOT be receiving another bursary or scholarship
DemographicsMust be an Employment Equity (EE) candidate, preference given to female applicants

Essential Personal Attributes

To excel in this programme, applicants should also:

  • Be highly self-motivated
  • Work well under pressure
  • Have excellent interpersonal skills
  • Show a clear interest in High-Performance Computing (HPC) and IT

How to Apply for the Khulisa Academy Bursary South Africa for 2026

If you meet the criteria, the next step is to prepare your application carefully. The academy only accepts electronic submissions, so ensure your documents are in order before sending.

DocumentNotes
Certified ID or Passport copyMust be clear and up-to-date
Recent ID photographPassport-style photo
Latest exam results & academic transcriptsCertified copies
Matric certificateIf already completed
Updated CVHighlighting any IT or academic achievements
Motivational letterExplain why you deserve the bursary, your passions, strengths, weaknesses, and key accomplishments
Two contactable referencesNot family members
Parents/guardians proof of incomeDepending on their employment status (employed, self-employed, unemployed, pensioners, or divorced)

Important: Missing any of these could disqualify your application.

Where and How to Submit

Applications must be emailed to: [email protected]
(Use subject line: “Khulisa Academy Bursary Application”)

Make sure all attachments are properly named and in PDF format to avoid issues.

Closing Date for the Khulisa Academy Bursary

Don’t delay! The closing date is September 30, 2025. Late submissions will not be considered under any circumstances, so start gathering your documents today.

Contact Information for Khulisa Academy

If you have any questions or need clarification about the bursary, you can reach out directly:

Contact OptionDetails
Telephone011 575 3634 / 011 575 6269
Email[email protected]

Their friendly team is ready to assist aspiring students who wish to secure their future in IT.

The Role of Online Education in Building IT Skills

In today’s world, online education has transformed how IT skills are taught. While the Khulisa Academy’s programme is largely campus-based to facilitate hands-on training, students also engage in online modules to enhance their learning. This blended approach ensures they stay up-to-date with global trends and technology stacks.

Why Choose a Career in High-Performance Computing?

With industries rapidly digitising, High-Performance Computing (HPC) skills are more in demand than ever. HPC helps businesses solve complex problems from financial forecasting to big data analytics — in a fraction of the time. For graduates, this means:

  • High earning potential
  • Opportunities in diverse industries (finance, engineering, healthcare)
  • A chance to work on world-changing projects

FAQs about the Khulisa Academy Bursary

Can I apply for the Khulisa Academy Bursary if I already have another bursary?

No. To ensure fair opportunities for all candidates, applicants must NOT be in receipt of any other bursary or scholarship at the time of application.

Do I need prior experience in High-Performance Computing to qualify?

Not necessarily. While a strong interest in High-Performance Computing (HPC) or IT is essential, the programme is designed to train students from the ground up. What’s most important is meeting the academic and personal criteria.

What makes Khulisa Academy different from other IT bursaries?

The Khulisa Academy Bursary is unique because it combines financial aid with an intensive, structured two-year training programme. Graduates don’t just finish with a certificate they leave as experienced, job-ready IT professionals frequently recruited by top firms.

Conclusion

The Khulisa Academy Bursary South Africa for 2026 isn’t just financial assistance; it’s a launchpad into one of the most dynamic sectors in the world. If you’re passionate about technology and eager to be challenged, this programme could redefine your career path.

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Ndãê Léẞédy is a part-time writer at Portal Publishing with a strong background in computer science. She is passionate about sharing reliable, well-researched information that helps readers better understand the world of technology and education. Ndãê completed her Master’s in Computer Science in 2020 and currently works at a government university, where she combines her academic expertise with a commitment to public service and lifelong learning. Through her writing, she aims to simplify complex topics and empower readers with practical knowledge. Her academic journey and professional experience have shaped her into a focused, detail-oriented communicator — always striving to make a meaningful difference through the power of words.