SANParks 2026 South Africa Bursary – Applications Now Open
South African National Parks (SANParks) invites eligible students to apply for its 2026 bursary programme. This initiative aims to support young individuals from communities surrounding South Africa’s national parks, providing financial assistance for studies in key environmental, social, and tourism-related fields.
SANParks, established under the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (2003), manages the country’s protected landscapes, biodiversity, and cultural heritage across an extensive network of national parks, including iconic locations like Kruger National Park, Table Mountain National Park, Addo Elephant National Park, and Golden Gate Highlands National Park. The organisation also works closely with surrounding communities to create socio-economic opportunities, promote conservation, and ensure sustainable development.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary covers funding towards an undergraduate National Diploma or Degree in areas such as:
Environmental Sciences
- Nature Conservation
- Environmental Management
- Green Energy
- Environmental Engineering
- Sustainable Development
- Game Ranch Management
Social Sciences
- Community Development
- Economic Development
- Socio-Economic Development
- Related Development Studies
Tourism
- Hospitality Management
- Resort Management
- Tour Guiding
- Events and Conference Management
Who Should Apply:
SANParks is looking for candidates who are committed to their studies and to contributing positively to their communities. Selection will consider:
- Academic performance
- Gender (with an emphasis on increasing participation of women)
- Disability status (preference given to those living with disabilities)
- Designated groups
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted by 30 January 2026. If you do not hear back by then, consider your application unsuccessful.
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Reside in communities near one of South Africa’s national parks
- Be in Matric (2025) or have completed Matric
- Be studying or accepted to study full-time towards an undergraduate Diploma or Degree in one of the listed fields
- Be enrolled or accepted at a public South African higher education institution (University, University of Technology, or TVET College)
- Have passed all registered courses if currently studying
How to Apply:
Email your application to: happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org
Use the subject line: “SANParks Bursary 2026”
There is no application form; simply submit the required documents:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate or latest results
- Certified copy of your most recent academic record (if applicable)
- Acceptance letter from your tertiary institution
- Proof of address
- Motivational letter explaining why you are applying and your chosen field of study
- Comprehensive updated CV
- Affidavit confirming income below the threshold (if applicable) or receiving a social grant)
Closing Date: 18 August 2025
Late submissions will not be accepted.
Contact Information
Contact Person: Happy Nhlangwini
Tel: 012 426 5173
Email: happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org