Are you a passionate learner from KwaZulu-Natal, especially from a land-claimant or neighboring community? Do you dream of studying and preserving our beautiful natural environment? Then the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursary Programme 2026 might be the perfect opportunity for you! This incredible bursary provides support for first-year students studying in fields like Conservation, Tourism, and more. Not only will you receive financial assistance, but you’ll also get the support needed to succeed in your studies.
If you have a love for nature and are excited to begin your journey at a university in KwaZulu-Natal, this bursary is designed to help you excel academically and become a leader in sustainable development.
Application Deadline: 16 February 2026
About the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursary Programme 2026
- Who Can Apply: First-Year University Students (2026 intake)
- Fields of Study: Conservation, Tourism, Social Sciences, Development Studies, Finance, IT, HR, Engineering, and more.
- Participating Institutions: UKZN, UniZulu, MUT, or DUT.
- Support Offered: Partial funding (including laptops, data, travel, and meals) along with psychosocial and academic support.
- Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must come from iSimangaliso land claimant communities or neighboring areas in the uMkhanyakude District or Mfolozi Local Municipality.
Why This Bursary Means More Than Just Financial Help
The iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursary Programme is more than just financial support. It invests in your whole development as a future guardian of our rich natural heritage:
- Comprehensive Support: You’ll receive laptops, data, travel, and meal allowances, especially if you are funded by NSFAS.
- Academic and Emotional Assistance: Get help with your studies and emotional well-being through academic tutoring and psychosocial support.
- Career Preparation: Participate in work-readiness training and skills workshops to help you get ready for your future career. You’ll also have community service opportunities during holidays.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with over 140 previous bursary recipients who are committed to conservation and sustainable development.
Are You Eligible?
To qualify for this bursary, you need to meet the following requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Be a verified member of an iSimangaliso Land Claimant Community or a resident of qualified neighboring areas (uMkhanyakude District / Mfolozi Local Municipality).
- Be entering your first year of study in 2026.
- Have been accepted to study at UKZN, UniZulu, MUT, or DUT.
- Plan to study towards a qualification in Conservation, Tourism, or a related field.
- Must have applied for or received NSFAS funding.
- Show a clear passion for nature and conservation.
How to Apply: A Simple Three-Step Process
To apply for the bursary, send your application via email. Follow these steps:
- Download the official application form: 👉 Download the iSimangaliso Bursary Application Form 2026.
- Fill in every section. Note: When asked how you heard about the bursary, write: www.zabursaries.co.za.
Additionally, prepare clear, certified copies of the following documents:
- Your ID.
- Proof of NSFAS application or award.
- Proof of registration/acceptance at UKZN, UniZulu, MUT, or DUT.
- Proof of your residence.
- Community Verification Letter:
- For Land Claimants: An official letter from your Board of Trustees Chairperson confirming your membership.
- For Neighbouring Communities: A letter from a local leader or councillor confirming your residence and duration.
- Email To: 📧 no*****@**********so.com
- Subject Line: “iSimangaliso Bursary 2026”
- Attachments: Attach your completed form and all necessary supporting documents.
- Submit your application by: 16 February 2026.
Also consider applying for: Sanlam Actuarial Bursary 2027 and Sorbet Academy Bursary Programme 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: I am not NSFAS funded. Can I apply?
A: No. You must have applied for or been awarded NSFAS funding. This bursary is designed as additional support.
Q2: I am in my second year at university. Can I apply?
A: No. This bursary is only available for first-year students starting university in 2026.
Q3: I am from Durban but accepted at UKZN. Can I apply?
A: No. The bursary is only for students from iSimangaliso land claimant communities or specific neighboring municipalities in northern KZN (uMkhanyakude District / Mfolozi LM). Proof of residence from these areas is required.
Q4: What if I haven’t received my final university acceptance yet?
A: You need to provide proof that you have applied to one of the eligible institutions. A conditional acceptance letter or proof of application is crucial.
Q5: Does the bursary cover full tuition?
A: It is classified as partial funding, usually covering extra costs like laptops, data, and travel. Primary tuition funding should be received through NSFAS.
Become a Guardian of a Living Wonder
The iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursary 2026 offers you a chance to join in protecting South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s an investment in your education as well as your ability to make a real difference in conservation, tourism, and community development.
This is your opportunity to align your academic path with an important environmental and social mission.
The deadline is approaching on 16 February 2026! If you meet the specific criteria, take action now. Reach out to your community leaders for verification, gather your documents, and send in your complete application. Your journey to becoming a guardian of the “miracle” begins here.
