In South Africa’s challenging economic landscape, access to quality tertiary education remains a significant barrier for many talented young individuals. The Ithuba Bursary Programme emerges as a beacon of hope, offering comprehensive financial support to deserving students who might otherwise be unable to pursue their academic dreams.
Understanding the Ithuba Bursary Programme
The Ithuba Bursary Programme is a flagship initiative by ITHUBA Holdings RF (Pty) Ltd, South Africa’s third National Lottery Operator since 2015. This transformative programme represents more than just financial assistance – it embodies a commitment to bridging social and economic divides while empowering young South Africans from previously disadvantaged communities.
The programme’s mission centers on ensuring that South African youth from previously disadvantaged communities receive the education they deserve, with a particular focus on developing critical skills in high-demand sectors that drive economic growth.
Comprehensive Coverage: What Does the Bursary Include?
The Ithuba Bursary Programme awards deserving learners with 100% bursaries, covering all expenses related to their education. This all-inclusive approach ensures that financial barriers don’t impede academic success.
The bursary covers:
- Complete tuition fees
- Student accommodation (residence or private)
- Textbooks and study materials
- Technology equipment (including laptops)
- Monthly stipends for living expenses
- Personal care allowances
Additionally, bursary recipients receive ongoing psychological and emotional support through the Independent Counselling and Advisory Services (ICAS) to help manage academic pressures and personal challenges. The programme also includes mentorship opportunities, workplace preparation, and specialized support programmes for female students.
Eligible Fields of Study
The Ithuba Bursary strategically focuses on two critical sectors experiencing high demand for skilled professionals:
Commerce Fields:
- Accounting
- Management Accounting & Finance
- Marketing
Information Technology Fields:
- Computer Science/Engineering
- Information Systems
- Communication Networks
- Software Development
These sectors are specifically chosen as they represent areas in high demand for talent, especially in a country like South Africa, which has one of the highest inequality rates in the world.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Ithuba Bursary, applicants must meet specific criteria:
Academic Requirements:
- Must have achieved a minimum of 70% for each subject and a 70% overall average in the previous academic year
- Must have completed Matric (Grade 12)
- Must be under 23 years old
Financial Requirements:
- Must be from a previously disadvantaged background with a total household income not exceeding R350,000 per annum
Study Requirements:
- Must be enrolled or accepted at a recognized South African tertiary institution
- Must be willing to specialize in Commerce or IT fields
- Must demonstrate dedication to maintaining strong academic performance
Application Process and Documentation
The application process is entirely online, with a comprehensive documentation requirement including:
- Certified copy of South African ID (applicant and guardians)
- Latest academic transcripts or results
- Matric certificate
- Proof of provisional admission to a tertiary institution
- Proof of accommodation arrangements
- Income verification documents
- A motivational letter explaining why the applicant should receive the bursary
Impact and Vision
According to Charmaine Mabuza, CEO of Ithuba and co-founder of the programme, “Education is a critical contributing factor to economic growth and bursary programmes play a key role in increasing opportunities for those unable to afford tertiary qualifications”.
The programme’s success is evident in its track record, with almost all past and current bursary recipients enrolled at South Africa’s most prestigious universities.
Conclusion
The Ithuba Bursary Programme represents more than financial aid – it’s an investment in South Africa’s future. By focusing on high-demand sectors and providing comprehensive support, the programme not only transforms individual lives but contributes to national economic development. For eligible students, it offers a pathway to academic excellence and professional success, embodying the spirit of Ubuntu through education.
Applications typically open annually, and interested candidates should monitor the official Ithuba website for current application deadlines and detailed requirements.
