The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture is inviting students to apply for its bursary programme for the 2026 academic year. This opportunity is aimed at supporting young South Africans who want to build a future in agriculture and related sciences, while contributing to rural growth, food security, and land reform in the province.
About the Bursary Provider – Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture
The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture plays a vital role in promoting agricultural development in the province. Guided by the Constitution of South Africa and national development frameworks, the department drives programmes that ensure sustainable land use, rural economic growth, and long-term food security.
Fields Covered by the Bursary
The bursary will be awarded for studies in the following fields:
- Agricultural Engineering / Bio-Resource Engineering (BSc Degree)
- Veterinary Technology (BHSc Degree)
Expenses Covered and Service Contract
The bursary provides comprehensive financial support, covering:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Prescribed textbooks
Important to note: historical debt or outstanding fees will not be covered.
Recipients will be required to work for the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture after graduation. The service contract duration will match the number of years the bursary was funded.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be currently in Matric or have completed Matric/NCV.
- Have completed:
- Mathematics and Physical Science (for Agricultural Engineering or Bio-Resource Engineering applicants), OR
- Life Science, Physical Science, and Mathematics (for Veterinary Technology applicants).
- Be studying or intending to study towards one of the listed qualifications.
- Be enrolled or intending to enroll at a registered South African Higher Education Institution.
- Be unemployed.
- Be in financial need:
- Household income not more than R350 000 per year, or R600 000 per year if living with a disability.
- Preference will be given to youth from the Eastern Cape, unemployed individuals, and students from historically disadvantaged backgrounds. However, students from outside the province are also welcome to apply.
How to Apply
Students who meet the requirements can apply as follows:
- Download and complete the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf).
- Enter “www.edustudent.co.za” in the field asking how you heard about the bursary.
- Email your completed application form along with all supporting documents to: bursary@ecagriculture.gov.za
- Use the subject line: “DOA Bursary 2026”.
Applications via fax or hand delivery will NOT be accepted.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents (compulsory):
- Certified copy of ID document
- Latest Matric/NCV results if currently in Matric
- Certified copy of Matric/NCV certificate if completed
- Full academic record if currently studying
- Proof of admission, provisional admission, or registration at a Higher Education Institution
- Proof of residence from a local municipality (not older than 3 months)
- Proof of household income (latest payslips if employed, affidavit if unemployed, or proof of social grants if applicable)
- Certified copies of parents’/guardians’ ID documents
- Proof of any other bursary or sponsorship, if applicable
Note: Youth with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Closing Date
The deadline for applications is 10 November 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.
Contact the Bursary Provider
For queries related to this bursary, contact:
- Mrs. Ndileka Guzana – 083 451 7445
- Mr. Mfundiso Nzimande – 082 868 1404
Conclusion
The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture Bursary 2026 is a golden opportunity for aspiring agricultural engineers and veterinary technologists to pursue their studies without financial stress. If you are passionate about agriculture, meet the requirements, and want to make a difference in South Africa’s rural and food security development, make sure you submit your application before the closing date.