About the Department Of Water And Sanitation:
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) in South Africa is responsible for ensuring adequate water resources and sanitation services throughout the country. Established in 1912 as the Department of Irrigation, the DWS has evolved over the years to address the growing needs of South Africa’s water and sanitation sector. The department plays a crucial role in formulating and implementing policies related to water resources management and sanitation services.
As part of its commitment to the development of the water and sanitation sector, the DWS operates the Learning Academy, which provides financial assistance to students pursuing tertiary education in fields related to water and sanitation. The DWS Bursary Program is one of the initiatives under the Learning Academy.
About The DWS Bursary 2025-2026:
The DWS Bursary Program for 2025-2026 is designed to support students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in fields related to water and sanitation. The program aims to provide financial assistance to students and develop a skilled workforce for the water and sanitation sector in South Africa.
Fields of Study Covered (Undergraduates and Postgraduates):
The DWS Bursary covers various fields of study related to water and sanitation. For the 2025-2026 bursary, applications are accepted only for the 1st and 2nd years of study for the following qualifications:
Undergraduate:
- BSc/BEng in Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering
- BSc (Hons) in Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering
- BSc in Hydrology, Geohydrology, Environmental Management, Project Management, Environmental Sciences, Environmental and Water Sciences
- BSc (Hons) in Hydrology, Geohydrology, Environmental Management, Project Management, Environmental Sciences, Environmental and Water Sciences
- National Diploma/BEng Tech in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current), National Diploma in Water Care and Environmental Management, and Biochemistry.
Universities Covered:
The bursaries will be awarded to students studying at the following universities in 2025-2026:
- University of Pretoria
- University of Kwa-Zulu Natal
- University of the Free State
- University of Cape Town
- University of Stellenbosch
- University of the Western Cape
- University of Limpopo
- Nelson Mandela University
- Walter Sisulu University
- Tshwane University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- Central University of Technology
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Vaal University of Technology
- University of Venda
- University of Witwatersrand
- University of Johannesburg
- University of Zululand
- Rhodes University
- University of Fort Hare
- North West University
- University of Mpumalanga
- Sol Plaatje University
Expenses Covered:
The DWS Bursary covers the following expenses for recipients:
- Tuition costs
- Books and study materials
- Accommodation
- Monthly allowance for food and meals
Requirements and Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the DWS Bursary 2025-2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must have passed Grade 12.
- Must be accepted or planning to enroll in one of the specified degrees at a recognized South African tertiary institution.
- Must demonstrate financial need.
- Must come from a poverty-stricken rural area.
- Must aspire to pursue a career in the water and sanitation sector.
- Must not be receiving benefits from other bursary programs like NSFAS.
- Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Application Process:
To apply for the DWS Bursary, follow these steps:
- Download the DWS Bursary Application Form from the DWS official website.
- Complete the application form with accurate information.
- Gather the required documents (certified copies).
- Submit the application form and documents via email to bursaries@dws.gov.za.
- Use “DWS Bursary Application – Full Name” as the subject line of the email.
Required Documents:
- ID documents
- Grade 11 and Matric results (if currently in Matric)
- Matric certificate (if graduated Matric)
- Tertiary academic records (if already studying at a university)
- Provisional acceptance letter from the university
- Proof of household income (latest payslips if employed or unemployment form from the Department of Labor if unemployed)
Closing Date:
The application deadline for the DWS Bursary is October 31. Beneficiaries will be announced within 14 days after the closing date.
Contact Details:
For inquiries and additional information, contact:
- Ms. Nobulali Mtikitiki (Bursary Coordinator)
- Telephone: 012 336 7149
- Email: MtikitikiN@dws.gov.za
