If you’re a South African student passionate about a career in the built environment, the Department of Public Works Bursary program might be a great fit for you.

This bursary program financially assists deserving students pursuing qualifications critical to the Department’s mission.

About the Department of Public Works Bursary

The Department of Public Works Bursary Program is an initiative designed to support South African students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The program specifically targets students pursuing careers in fields aligned with the department’s core business, which includes:

  1. Civil Engineering
  2. Structural Engineering
  3. Transport Engineering
  4. Electrical Engineering
  5. Water Care Engineering
  6. Mechanical Engineering
  7. Chemical Engineering
  8. Hydrology
  9. Analytical Chemistry
  10. Construction Management
  11. Quantity Surveying
  12. Architecture
  13. Landscape Architecture
  14. Urban and Regional Planning
  15. Interior Design
  16. Horticulture
  17. Actuarial Science
  18. Property Studies

By awarding bursaries to these disciplines, the DPW aims to cultivate a skilled and qualified workforce to manage and develop South Africa’s public infrastructure.

Department of Public Works Bursary Application Form

The application process for the Department of Public Works Bursary Program is usually handled online.

However, it’s important to note that the bursary program may not be offered every year. 

I recommend checking the Department of Public Works website regularly for updates and announcements regarding the bursary program.

When the program is open for applications, you can usually access the application form directly from the departmental website.

The application process typically involves submitting the following documents:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID document
  2. Certified copies of your latest academic transcripts or progress reports
  3. Official tertiary institution admission letter
  4. Certified copies of your parents’ or guardians’ ID documents
  5. Proof of income for your parents or guardians (latest payslips if employed, or an affidavit if unemployed)
  6. Breakdown of your annual tertiary fees
  7. Certificate of good conduct (optional, but recommended)
  8. A well-written motivational letter explaining why you deserve the bursary

It’s important to ensure all submitted documents are certified copies and meet the required format specifications.

Incomplete applications are likely to be disqualified.

Department of Public Works Bursary Requirements

To be eligible for the Department of Public Works Bursary Program, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:

  1. Be a South African citizen
  2. Be from a disadvantaged background
  3. Demonstrate academic potential for success in your chosen field of study
  4. Be enrolled or provisionally accepted for studies at a recognized South African university or university of technology for a program relevant to the Department of Public Works’ core business

Department of Public Works Bursary Closing Date

The Department of Public Works Bursary Program may not be offered every year. Therefore, a specific closing date cannot be guaranteed.

It’s recommended to stay informed by checking the Department of Public Works website for announcements regarding the bursary program opening and application deadlines.

For further inquiries, you can contact the Department of Public Works at their general enquiries number: +27 (0) 12 444 5000.