The Umthombo Youth Development Foundation (UYDF) Bursary South Africa 2025
The Umthombo Youth Development Foundation (UYDF) is one of the leading youth development organisations in South Africa, known for its commitment to empowering young South Africans through education. The UYDF Bursary Programme is one of the many initiatives the foundation runs to help talented students overcome financial barriers to higher education. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the UYDF Bursary for the year 2025, outlining the bursary provider, the bursary coverage, fields of study supported, eligibility requirements, the application process, required documentation, contact details, and the closing date for applications.
What is the Umthombo Youth Development Foundation (UYDF)?
The Umthombo Youth Development Foundation is a South African non-profit organisation focused on uplifting young people, especially those from disadvantaged communities. Established in 2002, the foundation’s mission is to provide opportunities for underprivileged youth to pursue their academic and career goals. UYDF works with both public and private partners to provide various programmes, including scholarships, mentorship, skills development, and leadership training.
The foundation’s flagship project is its bursary programme, which supports students in their journey towards tertiary education and beyond. Over the years, the UYDF Bursary Programme has helped hundreds of students achieve their dreams, contributing to the development of a skilled and educated workforce in South Africa.
Bursary Coverage
The award is designed for students who are recipients of NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) funding and require extra financial assistance to cover additional educational expenses. This supplementary funding helps bridge any gaps in the support provided by NSFAS, ensuring that students can fully meet the costs of their studies.
The bursary is designed to ensure that students do not have to worry about the financial pressures of education and can focus on their academic success.
Fields of Study Supported
Bursaries will be granted to students from the Umkhanyakude, Zululand, and King Cetshwayo districts in KwaZulu-Natal for studies leading to the following Health Science degrees:
- Audiology
- Dentistry
- Dental Therapy
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Occupational Therapy
- Optometry
- Physiotherapy
- Radiography: Ultrasonography
- Speech and Language Therapy
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for consideration for a scholarship, youth must meet the following criteria:
- Reside in the Umkhanyakude, Zululand, or King Cetshwayo districts in Northern KwaZulu-Natal, or live near St. Patrick’s Hospital (Bizana) or Zithulele Hospital (Hole in the Wall) in the Eastern Cape.
- Have completed at least one week of volunteer work at their local hospital.
- Have been accepted into a recognized health science degree program.
- Have received approval for NSFAS financial support (UYDF will supplement NSFAS allowances and provide mentorship).
- Commit to working in the public sector in a rural or underserved area upon graduation.
- Successfully pass an interview and be selected by a local selection committee.
How to Apply
The application process for the UYDF Bursary Programme is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Below is an outline of the general steps involved in applying:
1. Obtain the Application Form: The first step is to download or request the application form from the official UYDF website or from the UYDF office. The foundation may also provide the application form at outreach events, in schools, or through university career offices. Click here to download application form.
2. Complete the Application Form: Fill in the application form accurately, ensuring all fields are completed. This form will ask for personal details, academic history, financial information, and details about your chosen course of study.
3. Write a Motivational Letter: Applicants are required to submit a motivational letter explaining why they believe they should be awarded the bursary. This letter should highlight your academic achievements, career aspirations, community involvement, and reasons for applying for the bursary.
4. Submit Your Application: Once you have completed the application form and gathered all necessary documentation, submit your application by the specified deadline. Some applications may be submitted via email or fax. To submit your application:
- Email: Send it to Cebile@umthomboyouth.org.za with the subject line UYDF Bursary Application 2025.”
- Fax: Send it to 086 554 1565.
Important: Remember to indicate the hospital closest to you in your application so UYDF can notify them about your submission.
Documentation Required
Please note that if any of the following required documents are missing, your application may be disqualified:
1. ID Document or Passport: A certified copy must be submitted.
2. Matric Results or Certificate: A certified copy of your Matric June results or final certificate is required.
3. Full Academic Record: If you are currently studying, include your full academic record along with a letter from your department confirming the year of study.
4. Proof of Application or Acceptance: Provide evidence of your application to, or acceptance at, a tertiary institution.
5. Latest University Fee Statement: If you are currently enrolled, include a recent fee statement from your university account.
6. Proof of NSFAS Acceptance: Submit documentation confirming your acceptance into the NSFAS program, if applicable.
7. Completed Declaration Form: The last page of the application form, which includes a signed declaration, must be included.
Ensure that all necessary documents are provided to avoid any delays or disqualification of your application.
Contact Details
Postnet Suite 10328
Private Bag X7005,
Hillcrest, 3650
Tel: 031 765 5774
Fax: 031 765 6014
Email: info@umthomboyouth.org.za
Website: Umthombo Youth Website
Closing Date
The closing date for the UYDF Bursary Programme 2025 is on the 31 December 2024 @ 16:30. It is essential to verify the exact deadline on the UYDF official website or the application form, as it can vary from year to year.
The Umthombo Youth Development Foundation (UYDF) Bursary is an excellent opportunity for South African students from disadvantaged backgrounds to access higher education and build a better future for themselves and their communities. With comprehensive financial support and a focus on academic excellence, UYDF is helping to shape the next generation of leaders, professionals, and change-makers in South Africa.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, it’s essential to submit your application on time and ensure that all required documentation is in order. This bursary programme could be the key to unlocking your educational and career potential, so make sure you take advantage of this incredible opportunity.
