The Sugar Industry Trust Fund for Education (SITFE) is dedicated to supporting South Africa’s education sector through various initiatives, including school support, study assistance, early childhood development, and education centre development programmes.
Among these initiatives, the Study Assistance Programme stands out as the flagship project. It plays a vital role in helping government address inequalities in the fields of science, agriculture, and engineering—fields that are essential to South Africa’s economic and social development.
About the SITFE Study Assistance Programme
The SITFE Study Assistance Programme is designed to provide academically strong learners from disadvantaged backgrounds with access to quality tertiary education in agriculture, science, and engineering.
This programme enjoys strong support from both the sugar industry and external stakeholders. Each year, SITFE awards up to 41 full bursaries to deserving students, giving them the opportunity to study at some of South Africa’s top universities and colleges.
SITFE has a rich history of producing successful graduates, with prominent alumni including:
- Dr Bonginkosi “Blade” Nzimande – Minister of Higher Education and Training
- John Hlophe – Former Judge President of the Western Cape
- Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo – Deputy Minister of Health
- Dr Zweli Mkhize – Former Treasurer-General of the ANC
- Dr May Mashego – Medical professional and leader
Who Can Apply for the SITFE Bursary?
To qualify for the SITFE Bursary Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Residency: Be from one of the sugarcane-growing provinces – KwaZulu-Natal or Mpumalanga.
- Field of Study:
- Apply to study within the Faculties of Science, Engineering, or Agriculture at a University, University of Technology, or College of Agriculture.
- Children of sugarcane farm workers can apply for any field of study at the above institutions.
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
Where Can You Study?
Successful applicants may register at any public university, technicon, or agricultural college in South Africa.
Bursary Focus: Missing Middle Students
SITFE has shifted its funding strategy to focus on missing middle students—those whose household income falls between R350,000 and R600,000 per year. This group often struggles to secure funding, as they do not qualify for government bursaries but still face financial challenges in affording tertiary education.
Application Period
The bursary application window opens annually from July to October. Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare their documentation early and submit within the deadline.
View & Apply SITFE Bursary Programme 2025
Key Takeaways
- Bursary Name: SITFE Bursary Programme
- Annual Awards: Up to 41 full bursaries
- Target Fields: Science, Engineering, Agriculture (children of farm workers can apply for any field)
- Target Provinces: KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga
- Application Period: July – October each year
Conclusion
The SITFE Bursary Programme offers more than just financial assistance—it provides life-changing opportunities for students from rural and disadvantaged communities to pursue degrees in fields that contribute to South Africa’s growth. If you meet the requirements, this could be your pathway to a successful and impactful career.