The Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA) has announced the opening of applications for the Insurance Sector Student Fund (ISSF) bursary for the 2025/2026 academic year. This initiative, which aims to skill, upskill, and reskill students, graduates, and employees in the insurance industry, is a collaborative effort between INSETA and various private and public sector business entities.
With the South African insurance sector evolving rapidly, the ISSF plays a crucial role in ensuring that both current and future professionals are well-equipped to meet industry demands.
What is the Insurance Sector Student Fund (ISSF)?
The ISSF is a co-funded bursary scheme that covers the entire insurance value chain, providing support to students, recent graduates, and employees in the insurance sector. The fund is structured to assist in acquiring relevant qualifications and enhancing skillsets needed in the insurance industry. Whether you are looking to pursue your first degree, further your studies, or receive specialized training within the sector, the ISSF is designed to help you achieve your goals.
The ISSF is made possible through partnerships between INSETA and business entities in both private and public sectors. These partnerships aim to promote the development of a highly skilled workforce that can contribute effectively to the growth and sustainability of the insurance industry in South Africa.
Who Can Apply?
The ISSF bursary is open to a broad range of applicants across multiple categories, ensuring that all stakeholders within the insurance value chain can benefit. The application process is divided into five main sections, each catering to a specific group of applicants:
- Section A: Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Strategic Implementation Partners
- This section is tailored for accredited HEIs and partners who play a strategic role in implementing training and education initiatives within the insurance sector.
- Link to Apply for HEIs & Strategic Implementation Partners
- Section B: Co-Funders
- This section targets private and public sector entities that are interested in co-funding education and training programmes for the insurance industry.
- Link to Apply for Co-Funders
- Section C: South African Public (Unemployed & Employed Individuals)
- This section is open to the general public, including both employed and unemployed individuals seeking opportunities to enter or advance in the insurance sector.
- Link to Apply for South African Public
- Section D: National Skills Fund (Unemployed South African Public Only)
- Unemployed individuals looking for financial support to pursue qualifications or training in the insurance industry can apply under this section.
- Link to Apply for National Skills Fund (Unemployed Only)
- Section E: National Skills Fund (HEIs & Strategic Implementation Partners)
- This section caters to HEIs and strategic partners seeking to collaborate with the National Skills Fund for education and training programmes in the insurance sector.
- Link to Apply for National Skills Fund (HEIs & Strategic Implementation Partners)
Important Dates and Deadlines
The closing date for applications is 16 November 2024. All applications must be submitted by this date, as late submissions will not be considered.
Supporting Documents
Applicants are encouraged to review and complete the necessary supporting documents as part of their application process. These include:
- INSETA POPIA Consent Form: This form is required to ensure compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
- Worker Agreement Form: For employed individuals applying for funding.
- Youth Agreement Form: For youth applicants seeking opportunities in the insurance sector.
How to Apply
To apply, visit the INSETA website based on your category of application. It is important to read through the eligibility requirements and application instructions for each category to ensure that your application is complete.
Related: City of Johannesburg Bursary 2025
Why the ISSF Bursary Matters
The insurance sector is a vital part of South Africa’s financial services industry, providing stability and risk management solutions to businesses and individuals alike. By offering bursaries through the ISSF, INSETA aims to create a pipeline of skilled professionals who can contribute to the continued growth and transformation of the industry.
The fund not only addresses the immediate skills gaps in the industry but also promotes long-term career development and sector sustainability. For students and employees alike, the ISSF provides a stepping stone to a successful and fulfilling career in insurance.
With the ISSF bursary, INSETA is paving the way for a more inclusive and skilled workforce in South Africa’s insurance sector. This initiative is a testament to the industry’s commitment to nurturing talent and ensuring that the sector remains competitive on a global scale. If you are looking to advance your career or enter the insurance sector, now is the time to take advantage of this incredible opportunity.