SIOC Community Development Trust Bursaries 2027: Apply for Funding

The SIOC Community Development Trust (SIOC-CDT) is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to students from specific beneficiary communities. This opportunity is for those pursuing post-matric studies at public higher education institutions.

Application Closing Date: 30 November 2026
Location: Gamagara, Ga-Segonyana, Joe Morolong, Tsantsabane, and Thabazimbi, South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Monthly stipend included
Minimum Qualification: NSC average of at least 65%
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the SIOC-CDT Bursary Programme

The SIOC-CDT Bursary Programme aims to support students from selected communities who wish to further their education after matric. It is designed to help individuals pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies at public universities and colleges. The bursary is specifically for residents of or individuals originating from the Gamagara, Ga-Segonyana, Joe Morolong, Tsantsabane, and Thabazimbi areas.

This programme focuses on providing financial assistance to those who demonstrate financial need. Applicants must come from households with a combined gross annual income not exceeding R600,000. Meeting the community requirement is essential for qualification, even if academic criteria are met.

About SIOC Community Development Trust

The SIOC Community Development Trust (SIOC-CDT) is a non-profit organisation focused on improving the lives of people in mining communities. It invests in various social and economic development initiatives, including education, health, and infrastructure. The Trust aims to create sustainable development and upliftment in its beneficiary areas.

Priority Fields of Study

SIOC-CDT has identified several priority fields for the 2027 bursary intake. These areas are considered important for the development of the beneficiary communities and the country.

Agriculture

• Veterinary Science
• Livestock Product Analyst
• Environmental Officer
• Agricultural Economist
• Agricultural Engineer
• Food Technologists
• Food Technicians

Health and Clinical-Related Sciences

• MBChB
• Pharmacy
• Dentistry
• Advanced EMS
• Nursing
• Chemical Sciences
• Biological Sciences
• Medical Laboratory Sciences
• Biochemistry

Education

• FET Mathematics
• BEd FET Physical Science
• BEd Natural Sciences
• Economic and Management Science
• BEd Foundation Phase
• BEd Language
• BEd Special Needs

Law

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Tourism

• Hospitality Management
• Arts and Culture Heritage
• Eco-Tourism Management

Business Management and Economics

• Accounting
• Economics
• Auditing and Tax
• Actuarial Science
• Statistics and Mathematics
• Project Management

Engineering and Sciences

• Quantity Surveying
• Civil Engineering
• Architecture
• Geology
• Electrical Engineering
• Town Planning
• Environmental Health

Information Technology

• Computer Sciences and Communication
• Software Development
• Data Science / Analytics
• Web Design and Development

What the SIOC-CDT Bursary Covers

Successful applicants can expect the bursary to cover a range of expenses related to their studies. This financial support is designed to ease the burden of higher education costs.

The bursary may include:

• Registration fees
• Tuition fees
• Accommodation costs
• Prescribed study material
• A laptop (once-off donation)
• A monthly stipend
• Assistive devices for students with disabilities

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary is intended for the 2027 academic year. The specific duration of study support will depend on the chosen qualification. The bursary is available to students residing in or originating from the following South African communities: Gamagara, Ga-Segonyana, Joe Morolong, Tsantsabane, and Thabazimbi.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the SIOC-CDT Bursary Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Reside in and/or originate from one of the listed SIOC-CDT beneficiary communities.
• Be no older than 35 years by the closing date.
• Have been accepted or provisionally accepted at a relevant public higher education institution for 2027.
• Demonstrate financial need for undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
• Have a combined gross annual household income not exceeding R600,000.
• Achieve an NSC average of at least 65%.

People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Competencies Required

While not explicitly listed as formal requirements, applicants are generally expected to possess certain qualities that will help them succeed in their studies and future careers. These include a strong willingness to learn, academic commitment, and the ability to manage their time effectively. Applicants should also be able to demonstrate financial need and a clear motivation for their chosen field of study.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for students from the specified beneficiary communities who are passionate about their chosen field of study and require financial assistance to pursue higher education. If you meet the residency and academic requirements and are seeking support for your tertiary studies in one of the priority fields, this bursary could be a valuable opportunity. It is particularly suited for those who may not be able to afford higher education costs on their own.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit a comprehensive set of supporting documents with their application. Ensure all copies are certified.

• Certified copy of South African ID.
• Certified copy of latest Matric results.
• Mid-year Grade 12 results, if applicable.
• Latest university or academic results for current tertiary students.
• Certified final NSC results if Matric was completed before 2026.
• Proof of acceptance or provisional acceptance at a public higher education institution.
• Proof of application to a recognised public higher education institution, if applicable.
• Recent proof of residence (not older than three months).
• Proof of income for parents or guardians (e.g., recent payslips).
• Sworn affidavit if a parent or guardian is unemployed.
• SASSA grant recipient certificate, if applicable.
• Recent three months’ bank statements.
• Medical certificate confirming the type of disability, if applicable.

How to Apply

Applicants can apply either online or through a manual application process.

Online Application

Complete the official SIOC-CDT online bursary application form and upload all required supporting documents.

Click here to apply for the SIOC-CDT Bursary Programme 2027

Manual Application

Alternatively, complete a manual application form and submit it by hand at one of the following offices:

Kathu Office:
SIOC-CDT Office Park Block A, Ground Floor
Corner Hendrick Van Eck and Ian Flemming Road
Kathu 8446

Thabazimbi Office:
SIOC-CDT Thabazimbi Business Hub
11 Jourdain Street Mollies Building
Thabazimbi 0380

Important Notes

Please keep the following in mind when applying:

• Meeting the bursary criteria does not guarantee admission to a university or college.
• Applicants must still meet the admission requirements of their chosen institution and qualification.
• Application, shortlisting, or provisional selection does not guarantee that a bursary will be awarded.
• Submit your applications before the final day to avoid any issues.

Closing Date

The closing date for the SIOC-CDT Bursary Programme 2027 applications is Monday, 30 November 2026, at 12:00 midday.

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