Applications are open for the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality Bursary 2026. Youth residing in the municipality can apply before 14 November 2025 to study in key development fields.
Introduction
The Steve Tshwete Local Municipality (STLM) invites applications from South African youth residing within the municipality for the 2026 Bursary Programme. This opportunity aims to support academically deserving and financially needy students who wish to further their studies in fields that align with the municipality’s developmental and service delivery goals.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 14 November 2025
About the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality Bursary Programme
The Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, located in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, is deeply committed to community growth through education and youth empowerment. Its annual bursary initiative helps equip the next generation of leaders, professionals, and innovators who will contribute to local and national development.
The bursary is awarded to qualifying youth residing in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality (MP313), supporting full-time or distance-learning undergraduate studies at accredited public tertiary institutions across South Africa.
This programme is part of STLM’s mission to ensure that talented young individuals are not left behind due to financial barriers.
Fields of Study Covered
The Steve Tshwete Local Municipality Bursary Programme 2026 covers several high-demand academic disciplines that are essential for local governance, infrastructure development, and economic growth. These include:
- Engineering: Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Mining Engineering
- Environmental and Development Studies
- Financial Management / Accounting and Internal Auditing
- Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
- Legal Studies
- Media Studies
- Town and Regional Planning, Architectural Design, Real Estate / Property Valuations & Management, and Quantity Surveying
These fields are carefully chosen to ensure that graduates are equipped with the expertise needed to strengthen municipal and national capabilities.
Bursary Coverage and Benefits
The bursary provides financial assistance based on the municipality’s available budget. It may cover the following:
- Tuition fees (as per the institution’s official fee structure)
- Accommodation and meal allowance (on submission of valid proof)
- Learning materials (as required by the course curriculum)
- Monthly allowance (depending on available funds)
Please note that the bursary is not guaranteed to cover all expenses. Funding will be allocated according to the municipal bursary policy and available resources.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Must reside within the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality (MP313) in Mpumalanga.
- Must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric.
- Must be studying or intending to study toward an undergraduate qualification in one of the approved fields.
- Must have applied to or been accepted at a public tertiary institution (University or TVET College).
- Must have a combined household income of R350 000 or less per year.
- Must not be receiving any other bursary or financial aid.
The municipality encourages applications from students with disabilities and those from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit certified copies of the following documents when applying:
- South African ID document
- Grade 11 results or current Grade 12 report
- Matric certificate (if available)
- Admission letter from the tertiary institution
- Full academic record (if currently studying)
- Motivational letter explaining your academic goals and career aspirations
- ID documents of parents or guardians
- Proof of household income (payslips, affidavit, UIF, SASSA proof, etc.)
- Marriage or death certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of residence within the municipality
Incomplete applications or those missing any of the required documentation will not be considered.
How to Apply
To apply for the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality Bursary 2026, follow these steps:
- Download and complete the official Bursary Application Form for 2026.
- Attach all the certified supporting documents listed above.
- Submit your completed application to the address below:
📍 Submit Applications To:
Office of the Director: Human Resources or Skills Development Facilitator
Steve Tshwete Local Municipality Building
Ground Floor, Civic Centre Building
Corner Walter Sisulu Street & Wanderers Avenue
Middelburg, Mpumalanga
⚠️ Applications submitted via email or fax will not be accepted.
Selection Process
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further communication. If you do not receive feedback within eight (8) weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
The selection process will focus on academic merit, financial need, and alignment with the municipality’s developmental priorities.
Conclusion
The Steve Tshwete Local Municipality Bursary Programme 2026 is a golden opportunity for young residents of Middelburg and surrounding areas who are passionate about contributing to their community’s growth. By offering financial support for critical study fields, the municipality continues to invest in the education and development of its youth.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are determined to build a successful future, ensure your application is submitted before 14 November 2025. Visit the municipality’s Civic Centre in Middelburg to deliver your documents in person — and take a step closer to achieving your educational dreams.
Your future starts here — apply now and let the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality help you unlock it.
