The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is pleased to announce the availability of bursaries for the 2025 academic year. This initiative is designed to support and nurture the next generation of leaders in water and sanitation by providing financial assistance to deserving students pursuing studies in relevant fields.
If you are passionate about making a positive impact in water management and sanitation, and are committed to advancing your education, you are invited to apply for this valuable opportunity.
Courses Funded by the Department of Water and Sanitation Bursaries
Bursaries will be awarded for studies within the water and sanitation field, particularly the following fields:
Undergraduate studies:
- Civil Engineering (BSc/ BEng)
- Civil Engineering (National Diploma/ BEng Tech)
- Electrical Engineering (BSc/ BEng)
- Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current) (National Diploma/ BEng Tech)
- Environmental Management (BSc)
- Mechanical Engineering (BSc/ BEng)
- Mechanical Engineering (National Diploma/ BEng Tech)
- Water Project Management (BSc)
- Water Care (National Diploma)
Postgraduate studies:
- Environmental and Water Sciences (BSc (Hons)
- Geohydrology (BSc (Hons)
- Hydrology (BSc (Hons)
Eligibility Requirements for the DWS Bursary
1. Citizenship and Education Status:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must have completed Matric or be currently enrolled in Matric.
2. Study Intentions:
- Must plan to study full-time towards one of the approved qualifications.
- Must be entering the first year of study in 2025 (undergraduate or Honours).
3. Eligible Institutions:
- Must be studying or planning to study at one of the following public universities:
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Central University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- Nelson Mandela University
- North West University
- Rhodes University
- Sol Plaatje University
- Tshwane University of Technology
- University of Cape Town
- University of Fort Hare
- University of the Free State
- University of Johannesburg
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- University of Limpopo
- University of Mpumalanga
- University of Pretoria
- University of Stellenbosch
- University of Venda
- University of the Western Cape
- University of Witwatersrand
- University of Zululand
- Vaal University of Technology
- Walter Sisulu University
4. Academic and Financial Criteria:
- Must have a strong academic record.
- Must demonstrate financial need.
- Must not be receiving any other form of funding (e.g., NSFAS, bursary, scholarship, or other awards).
5. Additional Considerations:
- Students living with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
- Preference will be given to previously disadvantaged students from poor and rural communities.
How to Apply for Department of Water and Sanitation Bursaries 2025
1. Download the Application Form
- Obtain the Bursary Application Form 2025 in PDF format.
2. Prepare Required Documents
- Identification:
- Certified copy of your ID document.
- Academic Records:
- Certified copies of Grade 11 final results.
- Certified copy of Matric results if currently in Matric.
- Certified copy of Matric certificate if Matric is completed.
- University Admission:
- New Students: Proof of application, provisional acceptance letter, or firm offer from a university (on the institution’s letterhead).
- Honours Students: Academic record of undergraduate studies and proof of acceptance (on the institution’s letterhead).
- Proof of Income:
- Recent payslips from parents/guardians if employed.
- Affidavit if unemployed.
- SASSA grant letter if applicable.
3. Submit Your Application
- Email Submission: Send your completed application form and all required documents via email to bursaries@dws.gov.za.
- Subject Line: Include the subject line “DWS Bursary Application 2025” in your email.
- Closing date: 30 September 2024
Related: Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary 2025
The Role of DWS in Community Development
The Department of Water and Sanitation not only manages water resources but also plays a pivotal role in community development. By providing bursaries, the DWS is investing in the future leaders who will spearhead projects that improve water access and sanitation in underserved areas. This initiative aligns with broader national goals of reducing inequality and promoting sustainable development.
Meeting the eligibility requirements for the Department of Water and Sanitation Bursary is a crucial step towards securing financial support for your studies. By ensuring you meet all the specified criteria, including South African citizenship, academic performance, and financial need, you position yourself as a strong candidate for this valuable opportunity. The Department of Water and Sanitation is committed to supporting students from diverse backgrounds, particularly those from disadvantaged and rural communities.