The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture is offering bursary opportunities for the 2026 academic year to deserving South African students who wish to pursue careers in agriculture.
This bursary programme supports youth development and skills creation in critical fields that are vital for the province’s growth in food production, engineering, and sustainable farming.
Programme Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary Type | Undergraduate Bursary |
| Location | Eastern Cape, South Africa |
| Closing Date | 10 November 2025 |
The bursary aims to empower students from disadvantaged backgrounds and prepare them for employment within the agricultural sector after completing their studies.
Fields of Study Covered
| Study Field | Qualification |
|---|---|
| Agricultural Engineering / Bio-Resource Engineering | BSc Degree |
| Veterinary Technology | BHSc Degree |
What the Bursary Covers
The bursary provides full or partial funding for the following expenses:
- Registration and tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Prescribed textbooks
Note: The bursary does not cover historical debt or outstanding fees from previous years.
Service Agreement
Successful applicants will be required to work for the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture after completing their studies. The service period will be equal to the number of years the bursary was awarded.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for consideration, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Be currently in Matric or have completed Matric / NCV.
- Meet subject requirements:
- Agricultural Engineering / Bio-Resource Engineering: Mathematics and Physical Science.
- Veterinary Technology: Life Sciences, Physical Science, and Mathematics.
- Be studying or intending to study at a registered Higher Education Institution in South Africa.
- Be unemployed and financially needy, with a:
- Total household income not exceeding R350,000 per annum, or
- R600,000 per annum if living with a disability.
Preference is given to unemployed Eastern Cape residents and applicants from historically disadvantaged backgrounds. However, students from other provinces may also apply.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit certified copies (not older than 3 months) of the following:
- South African ID document.
- Latest Matric / NCV results or certificate.
- Full academic record if already studying.
- Proof of admission or provisional registration at a recognised tertiary institution.
- Proof of residence from a local municipality (not older than 3 months).
- Proof of combined household income (latest payslips, affidavit, or SASSA grant proof).
- Parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
- Proof of any other bursary or sponsorship, if applicable.
- Medical proof for applicants living with disabilities.
Incomplete or uncertified submissions will not be accepted.
How to Apply
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Download Form | EC Department of Agriculture Bursary Application Form 2026 (PDF) |
| Email Submission | Send to bursary@ecagriculture.gov.za |
| Email Subject Line | “DOA Bursary 2026” |
| Application Type | Email only (faxed or hand-delivered applications will not be accepted) |
Important Dates
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Close | 10 November 2025 |
| Selection & Notification | Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted |
Preference Will Be Given To
- Youth living in the Eastern Cape.
- Unemployed individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Learners with disabilities who meet entry requirements.
Apply via Email:bursary@ecagriculture.gov.za
CLOSING DATE: 10 November 2025
