The South African Journal on Human Rights (SAJHR) is inviting eligible students to apply for its Postgraduate Top-Up Bursary for the 2025 academic year. This initiative supports deserving LLM students who are passionate about constitutional, human rights, and justice-related law.
About SAJHR
- Founded in 1985 by the Centre for Applied Legal Studies (CALS).
- Based at the School of Law, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.
- One of South Africa’s leading public law journals.
- Promotes high-level legal scholarship for local and international audiences.
Bursary Overview
- Type: Top-Up Bursary (once-off payment).
- Value: Up to R30 000.
- Purpose: To partially cover study-related expenses for LLM students.
Fields Covered
Applicants must be studying towards an LLM degree that focuses on:
- Human Rights Law
- Constitutional Law
- Justice-Related Legal Fields
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, candidates must:
- Be a Black South African or hold permanent residency in South Africa.
- Show financial need.
- Hold an LLB degree from a South African university.
- Have achieved a minimum of 65% average in LLB studies.
- Be registered for 1st or 2nd year of an LLM degree at a public South African university.
- Be conducting coursework and research focused on constitutional, human rights, or justice-related law.
Preference Will Be Given To:
- Students from:
- University of Venda
- University of Fort Hare
- University of Zululand
- University of Limpopo
- Walter Sisulu University
- University of the Western Cape
- Students with a strong academic record.
- Students who are close to graduating.
How to Apply
There is no application form. Interested students must email their documents to:
kok.joey@gmail.com
Subject line: SAJHR top-up bursary 2025
Documents Required
Attach the following to your email:
- Certified copy of South African ID or passport with proof of permanent residency.
- Full academic transcript (on official letterhead).
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Contact details for two references.
- Motivational letter explaining your financial need and study goals.
- You may include a student account statement for support.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 11 April 2025
- Notification Date: By 30 May 2025
(If you don’t receive feedback by this date, consider your application unsuccessful.)
Contact Details
For any queries, contact:
- Dr Joey Kok (Managing Editor)
- Email: kok.joey@gmail.com
Check also: NFVF International Bursary Programme 2025
The SAJHR Bursary 2025 is a valuable opportunity for postgraduate students who are committed to the fields of human rights and justice. By easing the financial strain on students who demonstrate both need and academic promise, the SAJHR plays a vital role in developing future leaders in the legal field.
Students are encouraged to apply before the deadline and take a meaningful step toward achieving their academic and professional goals in law.
Related: University of the Witwatersrand Bursary Programme 2025
