Masakh’iSizwe (MiS) 2026 South Africa Bursary Applications Now Open
The Department of Infrastructure covers public works infrastructure, transport infrastructure, human settlements, and community-based programmes such as the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
The Masakh’iSizwe (MiS) Bursary Programme was established by the Western Cape Government in 2006 to address skills shortages and empower youth by providing opportunities to obtain tertiary qualifications through full-time studies at Higher Education Institutions in the Western Cape Province.
Each year, the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure partners with universities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and relevant professional bodies to provide bursary funding to students in the transport, engineering, built environment, and other critical fields as identified by the Department.
About the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme – Fields Covered
The Western Cape Government is inviting students to apply for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year.
Bursaries will be awarded for full-time studies towards Degrees or Diplomas in the Transport, Engineering, and Built Environment sectors, including the following fields:
- Architecture
- Construction Management
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current)
- Geomatics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Property Studies
- Quantity Surveying
- Town, City and Regional Planning
- Transport Economics / Studies
These bursaries will be awarded for studies at Western Cape universities such as the University of Cape Town (UCT), Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), and Stellenbosch University (SU).
Bursaries may also be awarded for other scarce and critical disciplines as identified by the Department of Infrastructure.
More About the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary – Expenses Covered & Selection
The bursary covers:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- Support programmes
- Accommodation and meals or transport costs
Additionally, bursary recipients gain access to support services, internship opportunities, and employment prospects upon graduation.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not receive feedback by 13 February 2026, please consider your application unsuccessful.
More About the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary – Obligations & Service Contract
During your studies, you may be required to attend workshops, events, meetings, and participate in academic experiential training and outreach programmes, sometimes on weekends.
Upon graduation, bursary recipients are expected to work in the public service or with partnered companies for a period equal to the duration of the bursary funding received.
Applicants must meet all the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Currently in Matric or have completed Matric
- Intend to study full-time towards a Degree or Diploma in one of the approved fields in 2026
- Be accepted or studying at UCT, Stellenbosch University, or CPUT in the Western Cape
- Preference is given to financially disadvantaged students, female students, students with disabilities, and students from the Western Cape
How to Apply for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary
Applications must be submitted online via the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Application 2026 portal.
Applicants will need to register for an account before applying.
Submit certified copies of the following with your application (failure to provide these may lead to disqualification):
- ID document
- Most recent Matric results (if currently in Matric)
- Matric certificate (if completed)
- Full academic record (if at tertiary level)
- Proof of registration or application at a qualifying university
- Full course outline or prospectus for 2026
- Estimated study costs for 2026
- Proof of residential address (utility bill not older than 3 months)
- Parents’ or guardians’ ID documents or death certificates if deceased
- Proof of parents’ or guardians’ income (latest payslips, affidavit, SASSA grant proof or pension if applicable)
- Motivational letter supporting your application
- Proof of any existing debt (if applicable)
- Proof of other financial aid received (if applicable)
- Medical proof of disability (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificate (if you have a criminal record)
Applications must be submitted online at: Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Application 2026
Applicants will be required to Register an Account before they can Login and apply.
Additional Information:
- If applying to more than one university or field, submit separate applications.
- Applicants should review the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme policies before applying.
Closing Date for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary
Applications close on 31 August 2025. Applications received after this date will not be considered.
Contact the Bursary Provider
For enquiries, contact the Department of Infrastructure Masakh’iSizwe Office directly:
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Tel: 021 483 0964 / 021 483 9545
You can also read the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary FAQ’s before submitting an enquiry.