Education is the key to a better future. But sometimes, the cost of studying at a university or college can stand in the way of achieving your dreams. The good news is that help is available for people living near De Aar, Northern Cape. The Sibona Ilanga Trust Bursary Programme offers financial support to students who want to study further but need assistance.
What is the Sibona Ilanga Trust?
The Sibona Ilanga Trust is a community trust that owns shares in the De Aar Solar Power plant. The money and benefits from this plant are used to support communities living within a 50-kilometre radius of De Aar. The Trust’s goal is simple: to help people in these communities achieve their education and career dreams.
By providing bursaries, the Trust empowers young people who are out of school to continue their education at South African tertiary institutions. Whether you want to study at a university, a university of technology, or a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college, this bursary could help make it possible.
Who Can Apply for the Sibona Ilanga Trust Bursary?
The bursary is open to individuals who meet the following criteria:
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You need to live within 50 kilometres of the De Aar Solar Power plant.
- You must have been accepted to study at a recognised public or private tertiary institution in South Africa. This could be a university, university of technology, or TVET college.
- You must complete the bursary application form fully and include all the required documents.
The bursary is designed for students studying towards qualifications at NQF level 6 and below. This includes:
- Technical and skills training programmes such as plumbing, bricklaying, and other trades.
- National diplomas.
- Degree programmes.
- Students who completed their National Senior Certificate (NSC) or National Technical Certificate (NTC) in previous years are also welcome to apply.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
The value of the bursary depends on your individual needs and can cover many study-related costs, including:
- Tuition fees, registration fees, and examination fees at your institution.
- Accommodation costs if you stay in a university residence or similar.
- Meals while you study.
- Learning materials such as textbooks and stationery.
This makes the bursary very helpful because it doesn’t just cover tuition but also the costs of living and studying.
How Does the Sibona Ilanga Trust Choose Who Gets the Bursary?
Selection is based on two important factors:
- Academic Performance
The Trust looks at your recent Grade 12 results or your highest qualification passed. Your academic achievements are important to show that you are serious about your studies and capable of succeeding. - Financial Need
You must show that you don’t have enough money to pay for your studies. The bursary is aimed at helping those who would otherwise struggle to afford further education.
How to Apply for the Sibona Ilanga Trust Bursary
Applying for the bursary is straightforward but requires careful attention:
- You need to fill in the online application form on the StudyTrust platform. This is the main way the Trust receives applications.
- If you prefer, you can also fill in a hardcopy application form.
- Completed hardcopy forms can be sent by email to b.ndlovu@studytrust.org.za or handed in at the Ethembeni Community Centre, 3 Friedlander Street, De Aar.
- Remember to submit your application within the application period, which is from 1 May to 31 October every year.
Make sure your application form is fully completed and includes all necessary documents, such as your ID, academic results, proof of residence, and any other requested paperwork.
Why Apply to the Sibona Ilanga Trust?
If you live near De Aar and want to further your education but lack the funds, this bursary could be your stepping stone. The Trust understands the challenges young people face, and they want to help you succeed. This bursary doesn’t only give money—it opens doors to learning new skills, gaining qualifications, and building a better future for yourself and your family.
Many young people in South Africa have already benefitted from this programme and are now studying in their chosen fields, thanks to the support of the Sibona Ilanga Trust.
Check also: Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme 2026
The Sibona Ilanga Trust Bursary Programme is a valuable opportunity for young people near De Aar to get financial help for their studies. If you qualify, don’t miss the chance to apply. With this bursary, your dreams of studying towards a diploma, degree, or technical skills can become a reality.
If you want to find out more or apply, visit the StudyTrust bursary application page online or contact the Ethembeni Community Centre in De Aar.
