Canon Collins Scholarship for Economic Justice 2026

For South African students passionate about social justice and economic empowerment, the Canon Collins Scholarship for Economic Justice presents a life-changing opportunity.

This funding program is funded by the Canon Collins Trust in partnership with the University of the Witwatersrand and the Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ).

It supports strong-minded and dedicated individuals who wish to work towards driving positive change in South Africa.

About the Programme

The Canon Collins Trust, in partnership with the University of the Witwatersrand and the Institute of Economic Justice (IEJ), offers this scholarship to exceptional students committed to advancing economic justice, social change, and equitable development in South Africa. 

Funding is made possible by the Sol Plaatje Educational Project (SPEP).

Fields of Study Funded

This scholarship supports full-time enrollment in the Master of Commerce in Applied Development Economics at Wits University.

Benefits for Recipients

• R60 000 per academic year toward tuition and living costs
• A six-month paid internship at the Institute of Economic Justice (IEJ), a leading economic policy and advocacy think tank
• Opportunities to expand your professional network through organised events and leadership development

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all the following:

1. Be a South African national or citizen
2. Hold an Honours degree with a minimum 75% average or be in the final year of Honours
3. Apply to study or be studying a full-time MCom in Applied Development Economics at Wits
4. Demonstrate commitment to using your qualification to advance social justice and equitable economic development
5. Be available for a six-month internship at the IEJ upon completion of your master’s

How to Apply

• Apply online via the Canon Collins Trust website—you will need to complete an application form and upload relevant documents, including transcripts, CV, letters of reference, and proof of eligibility.
• Refer to the official guidelines for detailed submission instructions.

Required Documents

You will need to submit:

1. Academic transcripts and Honours degree certificate (certified if possible)
2. South African ID document
3. Motivation letter detailing your passion for economic justice and your career goal
4. References/referee contact details
5. Confirmation of Wits MCom application or acceptance

Closing Date

The application window for the 2026 scholarship closed at 15:00 BST on Tuesday, 2 September 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.

Contact Details

For further enquiries concerning the RMTF programme or application process:

• Email: scholarship enquiries via the Canon Collins Trust website or the specified bursary contact page
• Phone: 010 500 2303 (Canon Collins Trust main line)