Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme For 2026. The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme 2026 is a flagship initiative by the Western Cape Government, established in 2006 to address South Africa’s skills shortage in the engineering and built environment sectors. This programme plays a crucial role in developing a steady pipeline of skilled professionals while ensuring that talented but financially disadvantaged students have the opportunity to pursue higher education.
If you are passionate about contributing to infrastructure development and want financial support for your studies, this bursary is an excellent opportunity to consider.
Purpose of the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary
The Masakh’iSizwe (MiS) Bursary Programme is designed to:
- Support students in scarce and critical skills fields identified by the Department of Infrastructure.
- Prioritise financially disadvantaged students, particularly women, persons with disabilities, and learners from rural communities.
- Offer academic and psychosocial support to bursars through dedicated support service programmes.
- Provide internship opportunities to prepare students for the workplace.
- Facilitate employment opportunities for graduates within the infrastructure and engineering sectors.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary supports full-time studies towards a degree or diploma in:
- Engineering disciplines (civil, mechanical, electrical, etc.)
- Built environment fields (architecture, quantity surveying, urban planning, etc.)
- Other scarce and critical skills as identified by the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure.
Partner Higher Education Institutions
The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary is only available to students accepted into specific Western Cape Higher Education Institutions (HEIs):
| Institution | Location | Specialisation Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Stellenbosch University | Stellenbosch | Engineering and related fields |
| University of Cape Town (UCT) | Cape Town | Built environment and engineering |
| Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) | Cape Town | Diplomas and degrees in engineering and infrastructure |
Candidate Requirements
To qualify for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Have full-time acceptance or be intending to study at one of the partner institutions listed above.
- Be enrolled (or planning to enrol) in an approved field of study at a Higher Education Institution in the Western Cape.
- Demonstrate academic potential and commitment to contributing to infrastructure development.
- Preference will be given to:
- Persons with disabilities
- Financially disadvantaged individuals
- Female students
- Applicants from rural areas in the Western Cape
Benefits of the Bursary
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive funding package that covers:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation costs
- Prescribed study materials
- Monthly allowance
- Access to mentorship programmes
- Opportunities for practical training and internships
- Employment placement assistance upon graduation
How to Apply for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2026
Applications must be submitted online before the closing date: 31 August 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.
- Prepare your documents – This may include your ID, proof of acceptance, academic transcripts, and proof of income.
- Access the official application portal – Click here to apply online.
- Complete the application form – Ensure all sections are filled in accurately.
- Upload supporting documents – Missing documents may result in disqualification.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Why This Bursary Matters
The Masakh’iSizwe Bursary is more than just financial aid it is an investment in South Africa’s future infrastructure. By focusing on skills development in critical sectors, it helps bridge the gap between education and employment while empowering underrepresented groups.
If you meet the criteria and have the passion to contribute to the engineering and built environment fields, this bursary could be your gateway to a successful and impactful career.
Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2026
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closing Date | 31 August 2025 |
| Fields Covered | Engineering, Built Environment, Scarce Skills |
| Eligible Institutions | Stellenbosch University, UCT, CPUT |
| Target Group | SA Citizens, Disadvantaged Students, Women, Persons with Disabilities, Rural Applicants |
| Funding Coverage | Tuition, Accommodation, Study Materials, Allowances, Internships, Job Placement |
Conclusion
If you’re passionate about engineering, architecture, or other built environment fields, the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary 2026 could be your stepping stone to success. With financial aid, skills training, and employment opportunities, it is one of the most comprehensive bursary programmes in South Africa.
