The Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026 offers full funding for undergraduate agricultural studies, supporting South African youth from rural and disadvantaged communities.
Introduction
South Africa’s agricultural sector plays a vital role in sustaining the economy, ensuring food security, creating employment, and supporting rural livelihoods. Despite its importance, the sector continues to experience a shortage of skilled professionals, particularly among young people from rural and historically disadvantaged backgrounds.
In response to this challenge, the Land and Agricultural Development Bank of South Africa has opened applications for the Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026. This fully funded bursary is designed to support deserving students who are passionate about agriculture and committed to contributing to rural development and economic transformation.
About the Land Bank
The Land Bank is a development finance institution with a strong mandate to support agriculture, agribusiness, and rural development in South Africa. Through targeted funding initiatives such as this bursary programme, the Land Bank invests in skills development to strengthen the agricultural value chain and build long-term sustainability within the sector.
Purpose of the Land Bank Bursary Programme
The Land Bank Bursary Programme is more than financial support. It is a strategic intervention aimed at developing future leaders in agriculture and agricultural finance.
The programme seeks to address critical skills shortages, create access to education for rural youth, promote inclusive economic participation, and build a pipeline of skilled graduates who can contribute meaningfully to the agricultural sector and rural economies.
What the Programme Aims to Achieve
Through the Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026, the institution aims to build a sustainable talent pipeline in scarce and critical agricultural skills. The programme focuses on promoting diversity and inclusion, empowering young people from underprivileged backgrounds, and strengthening professional capacity within South Africa’s agricultural and agricultural finance sectors.
This bursary is particularly suited to students who demonstrate academic potential and a strong commitment to agriculture but lack access to traditional funding opportunities.
Structure of the Bursary Programme
The bursary is structured to provide comprehensive support so that students can focus fully on their academic responsibilities without financial pressure.
Financial Support Provided
Successful applicants will receive full bursary funding that covers:
Tuition fees at Agricultural Colleges registered with the Council on Higher Education
Prescribed textbooks and essential study materials
A monthly living allowance
Accommodation and meal allowances where applicable
This level of support makes the Land Bank Bursary one of the most comprehensive agricultural funding opportunities available in South Africa.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary supports undergraduate studies at Agricultural Colleges in South Africa that are registered with the Council on Higher Education. The selected qualifications are aligned with national development priorities and the evolving skills needs of the agricultural sector.
Developmental and Career Support
In addition to financial assistance, bursary recipients benefit from structured developmental support aimed at improving long-term employability and professional growth. This includes mentorship and academic guidance, workplace exposure such as vacation work opportunities, participation in the Land Bank Alumni Programme, and access to professional development workshops and seminars.
Who Can Apply
The Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026 is open to South African youth who meet the required eligibility criteria.
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
Be a South African citizen
Be between 18 and 28 years old
Demonstrate strong academic performance in Grade 12 or current tertiary studies
Show a genuine interest in agriculture and rural development
Come from historically disadvantaged backgrounds, with preference given to applicants from rural communities
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection, as the programme is highly competitive.
Post-Graduation Engagement and Alumni Programme
While the bursary does not impose a strict work-back obligation, successful students are strongly encouraged to participate in the Land Bank Alumni Programme. This includes engaging in mentorship initiatives, networking opportunities, and industry exposure activities that contribute to professional growth and strengthen the agricultural talent ecosystem.
How to Apply for the Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026
Applicants must follow the application process carefully to avoid disqualification.
Interested candidates must complete the official Land Bank Bursary Application Form, attach all required supporting documents, and submit the application via email to:
The closing date for applications is 05 January 2026.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Conclusion
The Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for young South Africans who aspire to build careers in agriculture while contributing to rural development and national food security. With full financial support and access to developmental opportunities, this bursary provides a strong foundation for long-term success within the agricultural sector.
