The Support Teacher Empowerment Trust (STET) is inviting Black female South African students to apply for the STET Bursary Programme 2026. This bursary supports undergraduate STEM qualifications at UNISA, with a focus on developing future-ready teachers who will strengthen maths, science and technology education in South African schools. Applications close on 5 January 2026.
At a glance
- Provider: Support Teacher Empowerment Trust (STET)
- Study level: Undergraduate degrees via UNISA
- Fields: STEM qualifications (Mathematics, Sciences, IT, Computer Science, Coding & Robotics and related streams)
- Target group: Black female South African citizens (18–35), aspiring to become teachers
- Institution: University of South Africa (UNISA) distance learning
- Closing date: 5 January 2026
Who is STET?
The Support Teacher Empowerment Trust (STET) is a South African non-profit organisation established in 2017 to strengthen teaching standards and empower future educators, especially women, in high-demand STEM subjects. STET supports teacher training through bursaries, mentoring, digital skills development and exposure to modern, technology-rich teaching methods.
What the STET bursary offers
- Financial support towards tuition and related study costs for STEM qualifications at UNISA.
- Structured mentorship and leadership development.
- Digital skills and ICT training for classroom use.
- Access to a network of like-minded aspiring teachers and education professionals.
- Support aimed at preparing graduates to teach critical subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Coding, Robotics and ICT.
Fields of study
- Mathematics and Mathematics Education.
- Physical Sciences / Life Sciences-related programmes.
- Information Technology and Computer Science.
- Coding and Robotics-related qualifications.
- ICT-focused education streams.
- Other STEM-related teaching pathways offered via UNISA.
Who can apply? (Eligibility)
- Black female South African citizen.
- Between 18 and 35 years of age.
- Completed Matric.
- Currently registered at UNISA or planning to register at UNISA for the 2026 academic year.
- Intending to study an undergraduate STEM qualification linked to teaching and education.
- Committed to becoming an educator in South African schools after graduation.
Documents to prepare
- Certified copy of South African ID document.
- Matric certificate or final Grade 12 results.
- Latest academic record (if already studying at UNISA).
- Motivational letter explaining why you want to study STEM, become a teacher and how the bursary will impact your community.
- Any additional documents requested on the online application form.
Key dates
- Closing date: 5 January 2026.
- Late and incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to apply
- Visit the STET bursary application page using the link below.
- Complete the online application form carefully.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Review your information before submitting.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
After you submit
Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for further information or interviews. STET will communicate directly with successful candidates. If you do not receive feedback within a reasonable period after the closing date, you can assume your application was not successful, but you may consider applying again in future intakes if eligible.