The Department of Cooperative Governance (DCoG), through the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), invites applications from suitably qualified students for the 2026 academic year. The bursary supports students pursuing qualifications in Disaster Management, Fire Technology, or Fire Engineering at recognised South African public higher education institutions.
What Is This Bursary Program?
The NDMC External Bursary Programme provides financial support to undergraduate, postgraduate diploma, advanced diploma, and master’s students pursuing studies in the disaster management and fire-related fields. The bursary covers:
- 100% of tuition fees, including registration costs
- A research allowance for master’s students (capped at R11,000)
📌 Note: The bursary does not fund certificate courses or PhD qualifications.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
General Eligibility:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must have applied, been accepted, or registered for a full programme at a recognised South African public higher institution
- Qualification must be in Disaster Management, Fire Technology, or Fire Engineering
- Certificate courses and PhD programmes are not eligible
Undergraduate / Postgraduate Diploma / Advanced Diploma Students:
- Certified copy of a valid South African ID
- Certified matric certificate
- Minimum 60% overall average in most recent academic results
- Proof of application, acceptance, or registration at a recognised institution
Master’s Students:
- Certified copy of a valid South African ID
- Certified matric certificate
- Brief Curriculum Vitae (maximum two pages)
- Minimum 65% average in previous academic results
- Proof of application, acceptance, or registration at a recognised institution
- A Master’s research proposal addressing one of the 16 NDMC priority thematic areas
The Bursary Sponsor – National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC)
The NDMC, under the Department of Cooperative Governance, plays a central role in coordinating disaster management efforts across South Africa. Through this bursary programme, the NDMC invests in building a skilled workforce equipped to manage disasters, enhance safety, and strengthen community resilience nationwide.
Closing Date
30 September 2025
All applications must be submitted online via the NDMC Bursary Portal.
How to Apply
Apply online through the NDMC Bursary Portal:
👉 https://onlinebursary.ndmc.gov.za
Enquiries:
- Email: bursary@ndmc.gov.za
- Tel: 012 848 4614 / 28 / 54 (general)
- ICT-related issues: 012 848 4631 / 76
⚠️ Important Notes:
- Incomplete applications, emailed submissions, and late applications will not be considered.
- Ensure documents are not password-protected or corrupted.