The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has opened applications for its 2026 bursary programme, providing a golden opportunity for academically talented and financially needy students to further their studies in water-related fields. This bursary supports students pursuing careers that contribute directly to the sustainable management of South Africa’s water resources.
About the Department of Water and Sanitation
Established in 1912 as the Department of Irrigation, the Department of Water and Sanitation plays a crucial role in managing South Africa’s water supply and sanitation services. It ensures that all South Africans have access to clean, reliable water while safeguarding the nation’s water resources to support economic and social development. The department has evolved to meet the increasing demand for water solutions, especially in rural and disadvantaged communities.
Through its Learning Academy, DWS aims to cultivate skilled professionals in the water and sanitation sectors-fields identified as scarce and critical to national development.
Fields Covered by the DWS Bursary
For the 2026 academic year, the DWS bursary will support undergraduate and postgraduate students in a variety of fields. These include:
Undergraduate Degrees:
- BSc/ BEng in Civil, Electrical (Heavy Current), or Mechanical Engineering
- National Diploma/ BEng Tech in Civil, Electrical (Heavy Current), or Mechanical Engineering
- BSc in Environmental Management, Hydrology, Geohydrology, and Water Project Management
- National Diploma in Water Care
Postgraduate Degrees:
- BSc Honours in Environmental and Water Sciences
- BSc Honours in Hydrology and Geohydrology
The programme is designed to help the country meet its need for skilled professionals in the water sector while empowering the youth to build strong careers.
What the Bursary Covers
The DWS bursary is a full-cost bursary, covering a wide range of expenses to ensure that students can focus entirely on their studies. These include:
- Registration and tuition fees
- Book and stationery allowances
- Accommodation and meal allowances (as per university guidelines)
- A monthly stipend
This comprehensive support makes the DWS bursary one of the most generous government-funded bursaries in South Africa.
Who Should Apply?
To be considered for this bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be South African citizens
- Have completed Matric or be in Grade 12
- Intend to study full-time towards one of the listed qualifications in 2026
- Be entering the first year of study (either undergraduate or Honours level)
- Be accepted or planning to study at a public South African university or university of technology
- Have a strong academic record and be financially needy
- Not be receiving any other bursary, including NSFAS
- Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply
- Preference will be given to previously disadvantaged individuals from rural areas
This bursary is ideal for students who have a passion for environmental issues, science, and engineering, and who want to contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities and the country.
Partner Institutions
Students must be studying at or intend to enrol in one of South Africa’s public higher education institutions, such as:
- University of Cape Town, Wits University, Stellenbosch University
- University of the Western Cape, University of KwaZulu-Natal, University of Fort Hare
- Walter Sisulu University, University of Limpopo, Tshwane University of Technology, and more
These institutions are recognised for their strong academic programmes and alignment with the fields supported by the bursary.
Post-Study Obligations and Learning Academy
Once they complete their qualifications, bursary recipients will be required to join the DWS Water Learning Academy for up to three years. This provides an invaluable opportunity for work experience, mentorship, and hands-on training within the department.
How to Apply
To apply for the DWS bursary:
- Download the application form from
- Fill in the application form
- Attach the following documents:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Grade 11 and latest Matric results (if currently in Matric)
- Matric certificate (if already completed)
- University application or acceptance letter
- Academic record for Honours students
- Proof of income from parents/guardians or affidavits
- Email your application and documents to [email protected] with the subject line “DWS Bursary 2026”.
Deadline for Application
The closing date is 30 September 2025. Late applications will not be considered, so students are encouraged to apply well before the deadline.
Contact Information
For any enquiries, applicants can contact:
- Ms. Nobulali Mtikitiki (Bursary Coordinator)
- Tel: 012 336 7149
- Email: [email protected]
Check also: Complete Guide to Bursaries and Scholarships in South Africa 2025 – How to Apply and Secure Funding
The Department of Water and Sanitation bursary is more than just financial aid-it’s a stepping stone towards a meaningful career that supports South Africa’s sustainable development goals. Interested students are urged to take advantage of this opportunity.
