South African National Parks External Bursary Programme

The South African National Parks (SANParks) invites aspiring youth entering their first year of undergraduate studies in the 2026 academic year to apply for its external bursary programme.

📖 About South African National Parks External Bursary Programme

South African National Parks (SANParks) was established under the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No 57 of 2003). Its primary mandate is to oversee the conservation of South Africa’s biodiversity, landscapes, and heritage assets through a system of national parks. SANParks also ensures community participation in biodiversity initiatives and fosters educational and socioeconomic benefits for neighboring communities.

This bursary scheme is specifically designed to benefit children residing in communities adjacent to national parks, supporting their academic and professional growth.

📚 Fields of Study

The bursary covers Degree and National Diploma programs in the following fields (but not limited to):

• Environmental Sciences: Nature Conservation, Environmental Management, Green Energy, Environmental Engineering, Sustainable Development, and Game Ranch Management.
• Tourism: Hospitality Management, Resort Management, Tour Guiding, Events, and Conference Management.
• Social Sciences: Community Development, Economic Development, Socio-Economic Development, and related Development Studies.

🎁 Benefits

• Eligible candidates will be awarded a comprehensive bursary.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the SANParks External Bursary Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be South African citizens.
• Reside in communities adjacent to national parks as defined in their management plans.
• Provide proof of application and admission to an accredited institution of higher education.
• Be entering post-matric studies in 2026.
• Be pursuing a qualification at a TVET college.
• Be youth aged 18–35.
• For students currently registered at institutions of higher education, a 100% pass rate (passed all registered courses) is required.

Important Notes:

• Applications must be for full-time studies toward an academic diploma/degree at an accredited public South African College/University of Technology/University.
• Failure to attach required documents will result in disqualification.
• If receiving a social grant, attach an affidavit indicating that the income is below the threshold.

📄 Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents:

1. Motivation letter explaining the reasons for the bursary request and the chosen field of study.
2. A comprehensive updated CV.
3. A certified copy of your identity document.
4. A certified copy of your latest academic record.
5. Acceptance letter from a registered/accredited public institution of higher education (University, TVET College, University of Technology).
6. Proof of residential address.

📅 Application Deadline

18 August 2025

📧 Application Process

Interested candidates who meet the eligibility criteria should forward their applications, along with the required documentation, to the following:

• Email: happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org
• For Enquiries: happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org or call 012 426 5173

🌐 Application Portal

For more details, visit the official SANParks website: South African National Parks External Bursary Programme.

Apply directly here: South African National Parks External Bursary Programme Application.

This bursary is an excellent opportunity for young South Africans to pursue higher education and contribute to the conservation and development of their communities. Don't miss the chance to apply! 🌟

• Eligible candidates will be awarded a bursary.