The Grassroots Youth Development (GYD) Bursary Programme 2026 supports youth under 29 from Nelson Mandela Bay and Sundays River Valley with full funding for university or TVET studies, including tuition, accommodation, books, and mentorship.
If you have been dreaming of studying at a public university or TVET college but financial challenges have been holding you back, the Grassroots Youth Development (GYD) Bursary Programme 2026 could be the opportunity that changes your future. This bursary has been created specifically to support young people from Nelson Mandela Bay and Sundays River Valley Local Municipality who show academic potential but lack financial resources.
The GYD Bursary goes beyond simply paying fees. It provides a full support system that covers your studies, living needs, and personal development, ensuring that you are supported throughout your academic journey.
About the Grassroots Youth Development (GYD) Organisation
Grassroots Youth Development is a community-focused organisation dedicated to youth empowerment through education and skills development. Its core mission is to remove barriers that prevent young people from accessing higher education, particularly those from historically disadvantaged communities.
The organisation works closely with schools, municipalities, and community leaders to ensure that beneficiaries are not only funded but also supported emotionally and academically. By combining financial assistance with mentorship and guidance, GYD helps young people graduate successfully and transition into employment or entrepreneurship.
This approach ensures that students are not left to struggle alone once funding is granted, making the programme highly effective and impact-driven.
Why the GYD Bursary Programme Matters
Many talented students in smaller towns and local municipalities are unable to continue their studies due to financial pressure. Rising tuition fees, accommodation costs, and daily living expenses force many students to drop out despite strong academic performance.
The GYD Bursary addresses this challenge directly by creating equal access to education for youth who would otherwise be excluded. By investing in students from Nelson Mandela Bay and Sundays River Valley, the programme also helps build skilled individuals who can later contribute to the growth and upliftment of their own communities.
What the GYD Bursary Covers
The Grassroots Youth Development Bursary offers comprehensive support designed to remove all major financial obstacles. Successful applicants will receive funding for:
- Registration fees
- Full tuition fees paid directly to the institution
- Prescribed study materials such as textbooks and learning equipment
- Accommodation support, either through residence fees or a private allowance
- A transport or living allowance to assist with daily expenses
- Ongoing mentorship and academic guidance
This full package allows students to focus fully on their studies without the constant stress of financial uncertainty.
Fields of Study Supported
The bursary supports a wide range of undergraduate qualifications at public universities, TVET colleges, and FET colleges. Eligible fields include:
- Agriculture and Environmental Studies
- Arts and Design
- Business and Commerce
- Education
- Health Sciences
- Humanities
- Law and Legal Studies
- Social Sciences
- Specialised Fields
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
This wide selection ensures that students can pursue careers that align with their interests and talents while addressing real community and national needs.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Grassroots Youth Development Bursary Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be under the age of 29
- Be a South African citizen
- Reside in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality or Sundays River Valley Local Municipality
- Be currently registered or provisionally accepted at a public university, TVET college, or FET college
- Have a combined household income of R350 000 or less per year
- Demonstrate solid academic performance and commitment to completing their studies
The programme prioritises students with genuine financial need and strong motivation to succeed.
Supporting Documents Required
Applicants must prepare the following documents for submission:
For New Applicants
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ ID
- Matric certificate or most recent results
- Academic record if currently studying
- Proof of household income
- Proof of provisional acceptance at a university, TVET, or FET college
- Proof of residence
- Certified SASSA letter (if applicable)
- Parents’ or guardians’ bank statements
For Returning Beneficiaries
- Updated academic record
- Latest proof of household income
- Parents’ or guardians’ bank statements
All documents must be accurate and up to date to avoid disqualification.
How to Apply
Applications for the Grassroots Youth Development (GYD) Bursary Programme 2026 must be submitted through the official application platform provided by the organisation. Applicants are encouraged to ensure that all required documents are prepared and uploaded correctly before submitting their application.
APPLY FOR THE GRASSROOTS YOUTH DEVELOPMENT (GYD) BURSARY PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 30 January 2026.
Conclusion
The Grassroots Youth Development Bursary Programme 2026 is more than financial assistance — it is a long-term investment in young people and their communities. By covering tuition, living expenses, and mentorship, the programme creates real opportunities for students who might otherwise be forced to give up on their dreams.
