The Transnet Non-Technical Bursary Programme 2026 offers South African students a chance to fund their studies in critical non-technical fields, aligning with Transnet’s mission to drive economic growth through logistics. As South Africa’s largest freight transport company, Transnet operates across rail, ports, and pipelines, employing over 49,000 people. With applications closing on 6 October 2025, this bursary (reference number req3218) supports Grade 12 learners and tertiary students in fields like Computer Science and Environmental Science. Here’s your guide to applying and securing this opportunity to combat South Africa’s 45.5% youth unemployment rate.
Why the Transnet Non-Technical Bursary?
Transnet SOC Ltd., founded in 1990 with roots tracing back to 1867, is a cornerstone of South Africa’s economy, managing a vast network of freight rail, port terminals, and pipelines. Its Transnet 4.0 Strategy emphasizes technology-driven innovation, making non-technical fields like Data Science and GIS critical. The bursary, part of Transnet’s human capital development, offers:
- Comprehensive Funding: Covers tuition fees, accommodation, meals, textbooks, and experiential training.
- Practical Experience: Vacation work during June/July or December/January holidays at Transnet facilities, building skills like data analysis or GIS mapping.
- Career Pathway: Post-graduation work-back obligation (one year per funded year, subject to vacancies), with potential roles at Transnet (e.g., data scientist, environmental manager, earning ZAR 300,000–600,000 annually).
- Equity Focus: Prioritizes designated groups (Black, Coloured, Indian, and disabled candidates) to align with Employment Equity goals.
- Impact: Supports skills development in a country where only 3,000 IT graduates enter the market annually against a 70,000-person shortage.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary supports full-time undergraduate studies at recognized South African universities in these non-technical disciplines:
- National Diploma / BSc in Computer Science: Focus on programming, software development, and systems design.
- National Diploma / BSc in Geographical Information Systems (GIS): Mapping and spatial analysis for logistics and urban planning.
- National Diploma / BSc in Information Systems: Managing IT systems for business efficiency.
- National Diploma / BSc in Environmental Science: Sustainability and environmental management for Transnet’s operations.
- National Diploma / BSc in Data Sciences: Data analytics and machine learning for freight optimization.
- National Diploma / BCom in Accounting Science: Financial reporting and auditing for corporate governance.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet these criteria:
- Citizenship: South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Age: Grade 12 learners must be under 25; no explicit age limit for tertiary students (typically under 35).
- Academic Requirements:
- Grade 12 Learners:
- Minimum Level 5 (60%+) in English and core subjects (e.g., Mathematics for Computer Science/Data Science, Accounting for BCom).
- Certified copies of Grade 12 results or latest results.
- Tertiary Students:
- Enrolled full-time in one of the listed fields at a recognized South African university (e.g., Wits, UCT, UKZN; see www.che.ac.za for accredited institutions).
- Minimum 60% average in major subjects (e.g., Programming, Data Analytics).
- Full academic record, including 2025 results.
- Competencies:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Basic computer proficiency (e.g., MS Office, coding basics for IT fields).
- Teamwork, interpersonal skills, and attention to detail.
- Problem-solving and willingness to learn.
- Commitment:
- Participate in vacation work at Transnet facilities.
- Work back one year per funded year, subject to job availability.
- Documents:
- Certified copies of ID, academic results, and qualification certificates.
- Updated CV highlighting relevant skills or projects.
How to Apply
Applications are open from 6 August 2025 to 6 October 2025. Follow these steps:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID (within three months).
- For Grade 12: Certified Grade 12 results or latest results.
- For Tertiary Students: Certified full academic record, including 2025 results.
- Updated CV emphasizing academic achievements or IT/finance projects.
- Optional: Motivational letter explaining your interest in Transnet and your chosen field.
- All documents in PDF format.
- Visit www.transnet.net, navigate to “Careers,” and select “Bursaries.”
- Click the link for “Transnet Non-Technical Bursary Programme 2026” (ref: req3218).
- Register or log into the Transnet careers portal.
- Complete the online form and upload documents.
- Alternative Submission (if specified):
- Email: bursaries@transnet.net (subject: “Non-Technical Bursary 2026 – req3218”).
- Post/Delivery: Transnet Academy, Faculty of Leadership and Functional Development, 15 Girton Road, Inyanda 2, 3rd Floor, Parktown 2193.
- Confirm via www.transnet.net.
- Avoid Scams: Apply only through official Transnet channels. Never pay fees or share bank details. Report issues to +27 11 308 2799.
- Contact for Queries:
- Transnet Bursary Office: +27 11 308 2799 or bursaries@transnet.net.
What to Expect After Applying
- Screening: Transnet’s Bursary Department reviews applications for academic merit and eligibility.
- Shortlisting: Only shortlisted candidates are contacted by 28 February 2026 for interviews at Transnet Academy (Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, Cape Town, or Durban).
- Interviews/Assessments: Expect panel interviews or aptitude tests (e.g., coding for IT, financial analysis for Accounting).
- Medical Fitness: Shortlisted candidates undergo a medical assessment.
- Outcome: If not contacted by 28 February 2026, your application was unsuccessful. Successful candidates start in January 2026, with funding and vacation work obligations.
Tips for a Standout Application
- Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize IT projects (e.g., coding, GIS mapping) or financial coursework in your CV/motivational letter.
- Meet Academic Standards: Aim for 60%+ in English and core subjects (e.g., Maths for Data Science, Accounting for BCom).
- Certify Documents: Ensure ID and results are certified within three months by a Commissioner of Oaths.
- Apply Early: Submit by 25 September 2025 to avoid technical issues or early closure.
- Research Transnet: Understand its role in logistics and tech-driven Transnet 4.0 Strategy to align your application.
- Showcase Equity: If from a designated group or disabled, note this to align with Transnet’s Employment Equity goals.
Why This Bursary Matters
South Africa’s logistics sector, contributing 12% to GDP, relies on skilled professionals in non-technical fields like Data Science (70,000-person shortage) and Environmental Science. Transnet’s bursary not only funds your National Diploma or BSc/BCom but also provides vacation work, ensuring practical skills for roles like data analyst or environmental manager. With full financial support and a potential job at Transnet (ZAR 17 billion turnover), this opportunity empowers youth to drive economic growth.
Comparison with Other Non-Technical Bursaries for 2026
- VKB Group IT Bursary: Funds BSc IT/Data Science, requiring 70% Matric average and Afrikaans fluency. Closes 30 September 2025. Includes vacation work in Reitz.
- Nedbank Bursary: Covers IT, Data Science, and Accounting, requiring 65% average. Closes 31 August 2025. Focuses on financial need.
- Standard Bank Bursary: Funds IT and Commerce, requiring 70% average. Closes 30 September 2025. Offers mentorship but no guaranteed work-back.
- StudyTrust Bursaries: Administers various IT/Commerce bursaries, closing 30 September 2025. Less focus on vacation work.
Transnet’s bursary stands out for its logistics focus, vacation work, and Employment Equity commitment, ideal for tech-driven careers.
Conclusion
The Transnet Non-Technical Bursary Programme 2026 is your chance to fund a National Diploma or BSc/BCom in fields like Computer Science, Data Science, or Accounting Science, with practical experience at South Africa’s leading logistics company. If you’re a South African Grade 12 learner (60%+ in English/core subjects) or tertiary student under 25, prepare your certified ID, results, and CV, and apply online at www.transnet.net by 6 October 2025 . Don’t miss this opportunity to join Transnet’s talent pipeline—apply now and shape the future of logistics
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