iSimangaliso Wetland Park Invites South African Around KwaZulu-Natal learners entering their first year of study at Universities or TVET Colleges to Apply for the Bursaries for the Academic year 2026.
Bursaries will be awarded to students residing in KwaZulu-Natal, who are verifiable members of either; the Land Claimants Communities of iSimangaliso Wetland Park or a resident of the uMkhanyakude District
Municipality within areas that are close to iSimangaliso Wetland Park or the Mfolozi Local Municipality particularly the Sokhulu area.
Fields of Study Typically Supported
Bursaries will be awarded for studies in Conservation, Tourism, or related disciplines, including but not limited to:
- Conservation
- Social Sciences
- Development Studies
- Tourism
- Finance
- Information Technology
- Human Resources
- Engineering
- Infrastructure
- Supply Chain Management
Approved Institutions
Applicants must be accepted to study at one of the following institutions:
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of Zululand (UniZulu)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
What the Bursary Covers
Depending on available funding and individual needs, the bursary may cover:
-
Tuition fees
-
Prescribed textbooks
-
Study materials
-
Accommodation or residence fees
-
Other approved academic expenses
Funding is usually reviewed annually based on academic performance and compliance with bursary conditions. [Apply: Thos Begbie & Co Apprenticeships 2026 ]
Eligibility Requirements for iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursaries 2026
Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying (please note that failure to satisfy all the requirements will lead to your application not being considered):
- You must be a South African citizen
- You must be a verifiable member of either: The Land Claimants Communities from iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority (Sokhulu, Bhangazi, Dukuduku, Western Shores, Mdletsheni, Makhasa, Mnqobokazi, Nside, Ngwenya, Jobe, Mabaso, Emandleni, (Mbila) and Triangle (Mbila), and Coastal Reserves); OR be a resident of areas of Mkhanyakude District Municipality that are close to iSimangaliso Wetland Park or the Mfolozi Local Municipality particularly in the Sokhulu area
- You must intend on studying towards a qualification within the Conservation, Tourism or a related discipline
- You must entering your 1st year of study in 2026
- You must be accepted to study at one the following institutions: University of KwaZulu-Natal, University of Zululand, Mangosuthu University of Technology and Durban University of Technology
- You must have applied for NSFAS bursary, or have confirmation that you have been awarded a NSFAS bursary
- You must have a passion for nature
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List of Required Documents
- ID document (certified copy)
- Proof of NSFAS bursary application
- Proof of registration or acceptance to UKZN, UniZulu, MUT or DUT
- Proof of residence
- If you are a member of a land claimant community: official letter from the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of your land claim Trust confirming that you are a member of the land claim community
- If you are a member of iSimangaliso neighbouring communities: official letter from your local leader / councillor confirming that you are from the area and the length of time you have been living there
Closing Date
Bursary Application Closing Date: 16 February 2026
HOW TO APPLY FOR THE ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK BURSARY
Step 1: Download the Application Form
Download and complete the official bursary application form:
https://resources.isimangaliso.com/images/files/education/Application%20form_Tertiary%20Edu%20Support%202026.pdf
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Submit clear copies of the following documents (all are compulsory):
- Certified copy of ID
- Proof of NSFAS bursary application or award
- Proof of registration or acceptance to UKZN, UniZulu, MUT, or DUT
- Proof of residence
- Land claimant applicants: Official letter from the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees confirming membership
- Neighbouring community applicants: Letter from local leader or councillor confirming residence and duration
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Email your completed application and documents to:
nosipho@isimangaliso.com
Email subject line: iSimangaliso Bursary 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursary Programme?
The bursary programme provides financial support to South African students studying in conservation, environmental, and tourism-related fields.
Who can apply for the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursaries 2026?
South African citizens who are studying or planning to study at a recognised tertiary institution may apply.
Is the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursary open for 2026?
Yes, the bursary is available for the 2026 academic year.
Which fields of study are supported by the bursary?
Fields such as Environmental Science, Conservation, Tourism, Ecology, Marine Biology, and Natural Resource Management are supported.
Does the bursary cover full tuition fees?
Coverage depends on available funding and the student’s financial need.
Can first-year students apply for the bursary?
Yes, first-year students may apply if they have proof of acceptance from a recognised institution.
Are postgraduate students eligible?
Postgraduate students may be considered depending on funding availability.
Is financial need a requirement?
Yes, applicants must demonstrate financial need.
Do applicants need good academic results?
Yes, satisfactory academic performance is required.
Does the bursary cover accommodation?
Accommodation may be covered depending on the bursary allocation.
Are textbooks and study materials included?
Yes, prescribed textbooks and approved study materials may be covered.
Is the bursary renewable each year?
Yes, subject to good academic performance and meeting bursary conditions.
Are students from local communities given preference?
Preference may be given to students from communities surrounding iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Is there a work-back or service obligation?
Some bursary agreements may include a service obligation after graduation.
How do I apply for the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursary?
Applicants must submit all required documents according to official application instructions.
Is a motivational letter required?
Yes, a motivational letter explaining your career goals is usually required.
Can I apply if I already have another bursary?
Yes, but you must disclose existing funding and approval will depend on conditions.
Are TVET college students eligible?
Only if the qualification is related to conservation, tourism, or environmental studies.
Will shortlisted candidates be contacted?
Yes, only shortlisted applicants are normally contacted.
Is late application accepted?
No, late applications are usually not considered.
Where can I find official application details?
Official details are available through iSimangaliso Wetland Park’s official platforms.
