Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) Bursary South Africa 2025
About the Bursary Provider – Department of Water and Sanitation
The Department of Water and
Sanitation (DWS) is a crucial entity within the South African government,
established in 1912 initially as the Department of Irrigation. The department
plays a pivotal role in managing the country’s water resources, ensuring that
the formulation and implementation of water sector policies are effectively
carried out. The DWS's overarching aim is to guarantee that all South Africans
have access to clean water and sanitation services, which are fundamental for
sustainable economic and social development.
A significant part of DWS’s mission
involves the Learning Academy, which is dedicated to aiding students in
completing their tertiary education in fields related to water and sanitation.
These sectors are identified as scarce skills areas within the country,
highlighting the importance of nurturing talent in these fields to ensure
future sustainability and development.
The DWS also places a strong emphasis
on community engagement and public awareness. Recognizing that effective water
and sanitation management requires the active participation of all citizens,
the department conducts various outreach programs and educational campaigns.
These initiatives aim to inform the public about the importance of water
conservation, hygiene practices, and the sustainable use of water resources. By
fostering a culture of water stewardship and encouraging responsible behaviors,
the DWS seeks to empower communities to take an active role in managing their
local water resources and improving sanitation conditions. This holistic
approach ensures that the benefits of water and sanitation initiatives are not
only sustained but also amplified through community involvement and support.
About the Department of Water and Sanitation Bursary Programme
For the 2025 academic year, the
Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) invites students to apply for its
comprehensive bursary programme. This initiative is designed to support
students pursuing studies in various disciplines associated with water and sanitation,
which are essential for the development and management of South Africa's water
resources.
Fields Covered:
Undergraduate Studies
The bursary programme offers support
for undergraduate studies in the following fields:
·
Water
Project Management (BSc)
·
Mechanical
Engineering (National Diploma/ BEng Tech)
·
Environmental
Management (BSc)
·
Civil
Engineering (BSc/ BEng)
·
Electrical
Engineering (Heavy Current) (National Diploma/ BEng Tech)
·
Water
Care (National Diploma)
·
Civil
Engineering (National Diploma/ BEng Tech)
·
Electrical
Engineering (BSc/ BEng)
·
Mechanical
Engineering (BSc/ BEng)
Postgraduate Studies
For those pursuing postgraduate
studies, bursaries are available in the following fields:
·
Environmental
and Water Sciences (BSc Hons)
·
Geohydrology
(BSc Hons)
·
Hydrology
(BSc Hons)
What Does the Bursary Cover?
The DWS bursary is comprehensive and
covers various expenses to ease your financial burden throughout your studies.
Here's a breakdown of what's included:
·
Registration
Fees: No need to worry about upfront university registration costs.
·
Tuition
Fees: The bursary will cover the full cost of your tuition throughout your
degree.
·
Book
and Stationery Allowance: You'll receive an allowance to purchase essential
course materials.
·
Accommodation:
The bursary provides financial support for your on-campus or off-campus
housing.
·
Food
Allowance: A monthly stipend to help with your living expenses, following
university guidelines.
·
Monthly
Stipend: Additional financial support to cover your day-to-day needs.
Selection Criteria
The DWS bursary is merit-based, and
successful applicants will be chosen based on a balanced consideration of the
following factors:
·
Academic
Performance: Your previous academic record will be a key factor in the
selection process.
·
Race
and Gender: The DWS aims to promote diversity within the water sector, so race
and gender representation will be considered.
·
Financial
Need: Demonstrating financial hardship will strengthen your application.
·
Alignment
with DWS Needs: The programme prioritizes students pursuing qualifications that
meet the department's current needs in water and sanitation.
Upon completing their studies,
bursary recipients are required to join the Water Learning Academy for a period
of up to three years. This service contract ensures that the skills and
knowledge gained through their education are directly applied to the sector,
contributing to its development and sustainability.
Selection Process
Candidates who are shortlisted for
the bursary will be contacted within three months of the bursary closing date.
If applicants do not receive any communication within this period, they should
consider their application unsuccessful.
Eligibility Requirements for the DWS Bursary
Applicants must meet the following
minimum criteria to be considered for the DWS bursary:
·
Must
be a South African citizen
·
Must
have completed Matric or be currently in Matric
·
Must
intend to study full-time towards one of the listed qualifications
·
Must
be entering their first year of study in 2025 (undergraduate or Honours)
Must be studying or intending to study at one of the following public institutions:
·
University
of Zululand
·
University
of Venda
·
Walter
Sisulu University
·
University
of the Free State
·
University
of Johannesburg
·
University
of the Western Cape
·
University
of Witwatersrand
·
University
of Stellenbosch
·
University
of Pretoria
·
University
of Mpumalanga
·
University
of Limpopo
·
University
of KwaZulu-Natal
·
University
of Fort Hare
·
University
of Cape Town
·
Tshwane
University of Technology
·
Sol
Plaatje University
·
Rhodes
University
·
North
West University
·
Nelson
Mandela University
·
Durban
University of Technology
·
Vaal
University of Technology
·
Central
University of Technology
·
Cape
Peninsula University of Technology
Additional requirements include
having a strong academic record, demonstrating financial need, and not
receiving any other funding (including NSFAS, bursaries, scholarships, or other
awards). Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply, and preference is
given to previously disadvantaged students from poor and rural communities.
Application Process and Tips for Success
Application Process
·
Gather
Required Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready,
including your Matric certificate, proof of acceptance at a qualifying
institution, and financial need evidence.
·
Complete
the Application Form: Fill out the bursary application form accurately. Be
thorough and ensure all information provided is correct.
·
Submit
the Application: Submit your completed application along with the required
documents before the closing date. Late or incomplete applications will not be
considered.
Tips for Success
·
Start
Early: Begin your application process well in advance of the deadline to avoid
last-minute issues.
·
Highlight
Your Achievements: Make sure to highlight your academic achievements and any
relevant extracurricular activities.
·
Demonstrate
Financial Need: Clearly articulate your financial need in your application to
improve your chances of receiving the bursary.
·
Seek
Assistance: If you need help with your application, seek advice from teachers,
mentors, or previous bursary recipients.
How to Apply?
·
Click here to download the application document.
·
Applications
should be sent via email to: bursaries@dws.gov.za
·
Be
sure to write "DWS Bursary Application 2025" in the subject line of
the email.
·
Also
write “www.savarsitystudent.co.za” when asked where you heard about this
bursary.
Closing Date:
30 September 2024.
The Impact of the DWS Bursary Programme
The DWS bursary programme has a
significant impact on both the recipients and the broader community. By
supporting students in critical fields of study, the programme helps to address
the shortage of skills in the water and sanitation sector. This, in turn,
contributes to the sustainable management of South Africa’s water resources and
ensures that all citizens have access to clean water and proper sanitation
services.
Bursary recipients not only gain
valuable education and training but also have the opportunity to make a
meaningful contribution to their communities through their work. The service
contract with the Water Learning Academy ensures that these talented individuals
are integrated into the workforce, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative
solutions to the sector.
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) bursary for the 2025 academic year offers a unique opportunity for students passionate about contributing to the water and sanitation sector. By providing comprehensive financial support and ensuring practical experience through the Water Learning Academy, the DWS bursary programme is a vital initiative for building a sustainable future for South Africa. Interested students are encouraged to apply and take the first step towards a rewarding career in a field that is crucial for the nation’s development.
