South Africa’s local government sector faces a critical shortage of skilled professionals. To address this, the Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA) is offering its annual bursary fund programme for the 2026 academic year.
The LGSETA bursary provides comprehensive financial support for full‑time studies in fields related to local government, making it an excellent opportunity for students who want to shape better communities.
Bursary sponsor
LGSETA is the statutory body responsible for skills development in the local government sector. Through its discretionary grant (DG) bursary scheme, the organisation invests in students pursuing qualifications that will strengthen municipalities and improve service delivery.
What is the bursary about?
The LGSETA bursary covers tuition and prescribed learning materials for eligible full‑time programmes. Priority study fields include town planning, public administration, civil engineering, environmental management, finance, disaster management and other disciplines that directly contribute to the local government skills pipeline.
Successful recipients are expected to maintain good academic standing and participate in LGSETA‑supported initiatives.
Who can apply / eligibility criteria
Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents, unemployed and registered (or accepted) for full‑time study at a South African university, university of technology or TVET college.
The bursary targets students studying disciplines linked to local government and prefers candidates who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to public service.
Closing date
Applications close 28 November 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered, so applicants should ensure they complete the online process well before the deadline.
How to apply
Visit LGSETA’s DG bursary portal (pulse.lgseta.org.za) and create an account. Complete the online application form, upload a certified ID copy, proof of admission, latest academic record and any other supporting documents, then submit your application before the closing date. You will receive an acknowledgement email once your application has been captured.
For full details and to access the application form, please see the LGSETA bursary advertisement (PDF) link below and available on the LGSETA website