The ILASA Bursary 2025
The Institute for Landscape Architecture in South Africa (ILASA), in partnership with the Council for the Built Environment (CBE), is committed to transforming the South African Built Environment (BE) sector to reflect the nation's diverse population. A crucial component of this commitment is the ILASA Bursary, which provides financial assistance to deserving students pursuing careers in Landscape Architecture. This article provides a detailed overview of the ILASA Bursary for 2025, outlining its objectives, eligibility criteria, application process, and its broader impact on the landscape architecture profession in South Africa.
About ILASA Bursary
The South African BE sector,
including Landscape Architecture, has historically lacked representation from
previously disadvantaged individuals (PDIs). This disparity necessitates
proactive measures to create a more inclusive and equitable professional landscape.
The ILASA Bursary directly addresses this challenge by targeting PDI students
with the potential to contribute significantly to the field.
The CBE and ILASA recognize that a
diverse and representative BE sector is not merely a matter of social justice
but a crucial driver of innovation and effective problem-solving. By supporting
PDI students, the bursary aims to:
- Promote
Balance and Diversity: The core objective is to foster a more balanced representation of
all demographic groups within the Landscape Architecture profession. This
diversity brings varied perspectives, experiences, and cultural insights,
enriching the field and leading to more contextually relevant and socially
responsible designs.
- Empower
Previously Disadvantaged Individuals: The bursary empowers PDI students by removing
financial barriers to education and professional registration. This
support enables them to pursue their ambitions and contribute to the
growth and development of the sector.
- Build
Capacity and Responsiveness: By investing in the education of future landscape
architects from diverse backgrounds, the bursary contributes to building
greater capacity, commitment, accountability, and responsiveness within
the BE sector. This ensures that the profession is equipped to address the
complex challenges facing South African communities.
Focus on Landscape Architecture:
Shaping Sustainable Futures
While the broader goal is
transformation of the entire BE sector, the ILASA Bursary specifically focuses
on nurturing talent within Landscape Architecture. This focus recognizes the
vital role landscape architects play in creating sustainable, resilient, and
aesthetically pleasing environments. Landscape architects are instrumental in:
- Urban
Planning and Design: Designing public spaces, parks, and green infrastructure that
enhance the quality of urban life.
- Environmental
Conservation and Restoration: Protecting natural ecosystems, mitigating the impacts
of climate change, and promoting biodiversity.
- Community
Development and Social Upliftment: Creating inclusive and accessible spaces that foster
social interaction and community cohesion.
By supporting students pursuing
Landscape Architecture, the ILASA Bursary invests in the future of the built
and natural environments in South Africa.
Key Features and Eligibility
The ILASA Bursary is awarded annually
to deserving students enrolled in accredited Landscape Architecture degree
programs at recognized South African institutions. For 2025, eligible
institutions include:
- University
of Cape Town (UCT)
- University
of Pretoria (UP)
- Cape
Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
Eligibility criteria typically
include:
- Academic
Performance:
Applicants are generally required to demonstrate a strong academic record.
Specific requirements regarding minimum grade point averages or academic
standing may apply.
- Financial
Need: The
bursary prioritizes students who demonstrate financial need and would
otherwise struggle to afford their education.
- Previously
Disadvantaged Status: As outlined above, the bursary specifically targets previously
disadvantaged individuals.
- Commitment
to Landscape Architecture: Applicants must demonstrate a genuine interest in and
commitment to pursuing a career in Landscape Architecture. This may be
evidenced through academic coursework, extracurricular activities, or
personal statements.
Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The application process for the ILASA
Bursary typically involves several steps:
- Application
Form:
Applicants must complete the official ILASA Bursary application form,
which is usually available on the (ILASA website- CLICK HERE) or through
the relevant university departments.
- Supporting
Documentation:
Applicants are required to submit supporting documentation, which may
include:
- Academic
transcripts
- Proof
of financial need (e.g., income statements, tax returns)
- Identity
document
- Motivational
letter outlining their interest in Landscape Architecture and their
career aspirations
- Letters
of recommendation
- Submission: Completed applications must be
submitted by the specified deadline. Late applications are typically not
considered.
Selection Process
The selection process is conducted by
a panel of experts appointed by ILASA. The panel carefully reviews all
applications based on the established criteria. The selection process aims to
be fair, transparent, and objective, ensuring that bursaries are awarded to the
most deserving candidates.
Additional Key Benefits
The ILASA Bursary is more than just
financial assistance. It represents an investment in the future of the
Landscape Architecture profession in South Africa. By supporting PDI students,
the bursary aims to:
- Develop
Future Leaders:
The bursary seeks to identify and nurture future leaders within the
profession. By providing financial support and mentorship opportunities,
the bursary empowers students to reach their full potential and become
influential figures in the field.
- Strengthen
the Profession:
By increasing diversity and representation within the profession, the
bursary strengthens the profession as a whole. A more diverse and
inclusive profession is better equipped to address the complex challenges
facing South African communities and contribute to a more sustainable and
equitable future.
The ILASA Bursary for 2025 represents a significant investment in the future of Landscape Architecture in South Africa. By targeting previously disadvantaged individuals and promoting diversity within the profession, the bursary aims to create a more inclusive, equitable, and responsive BE sector. This initiative not only empowers individual students but also strengthens the profession as a whole, ensuring that it is equipped to address the complex challenges facing the nation and contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for all. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the ILASA website or contact the relevant university departments for the most up-to-date information on application deadlines and requirements for the 2025 bursary.
