About the Bursary Provider – Knysna Rotary
Rotary International is one of the world’s largest and most respected service organizations. Guided by the values of integrity, fellowship, and service, Rotary unites business, professional, and community leaders to promote goodwill and peace across the globe. Today, Rotary has over 1.4 million members in more than 46 000 clubs worldwide.
The Knysna Rotary Club is an active and vibrant branch, currently supported by 45 dedicated members. Living by the principle of “Service above Self”, the club works tirelessly to uplift the local community through a wide range of projects and support programmes in the Knysna region.
About the Knysna Rotary Bursary Programme – Fields Covered
The Knysna Rotary Club is inviting applications for its bursary programme for the 2026 academic year.
Bursaries will be awarded to students who are residents of Knysna and pursuing undergraduate studies in the following fields:
- Accounting
- Ambulance Training
- Architect Drawing
- Business Management
- Education / Teaching
- Engineering
- Firefighting
- Journalism
- Law
- Marketing
- Media and Communication
- Medicine
- Nature Conservation
- Nursing and Caring
- Social Work
The Knysna Rotary Bursary has been supporting students since 1982, making it the club’s largest single budget commitment. Funding is raised primarily through local initiatives, including the Rotary Golf Weekend and the former Knysna Rotary Cycle Tour.
Bursary Coverage and Payment
The bursary offers partial financial support ranging from R6 000 to R30 000. Funding focuses on priority areas such as:
- Basic education and literacy
- Maternal and child health
- Economic and community development
Successful candidates will receive payment in two instalments:
- The first half is paid to the institution once the bursary is approved.
- The second half is released after the student passes their mid-year exams or course.
Since this is a partial bursary, applicants must have an additional source of financial support for their studies.
Renewal and Selection Process
The bursary is valid for one academic year, and students need to re-apply each year for continued support.
Useful links:
Applicants who are shortlisted will be invited to a comprehensive interview with the bursary committee. Final selections are based on academic performance, motivation, and commitment.
Bursary recipients are also encouraged to take part in Rotary fund-raising activities and volunteer programmes.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Knysna Rotary Bursary, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Must have resided in Knysna for at least 5 years
- Must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric
- Must be pursuing or planning to pursue an undergraduate qualification in one of the listed fields (postgraduate studies are not covered)
- Must have achieved a minimum overall average of 50%
- Must have another source of funding to support their studies
Additional Preference Will Be Given To Candidates Who:
- Have a clear understanding of their chosen course and career path
- Demonstrate academic strength and potential
- Show evidence of leadership or involvement in school or community activities
- Possess strong communication skills
- Are aware of Rotary International’s role and mission
- Stay informed about South Africa’s current affairs
- Have secured or researched accommodation and travel plans
- Plan to work during academic holidays
- Have some financial support from parents or guardians
How to Apply for the Knysna Rotary Bursary
Download and complete the application form in your preferred language:
- Afrikaans version: Knysna Rotary Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf)
- English version: Knysna Rotary Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf)
Required Supporting Documents
Submit the following documents along with your application (all documents must be clear copies, and missing documents may lead to disqualification):
- Certified copy of your ID document
- Passport-sized photo (attached to the application form)
- Latest Matric results, if currently in Matric
- Matric certificate, if completed Matric
- Most recent tertiary academic results, if currently studying
- For re-applicants: mid-year academic results
Application Submission
Send your completed application and supporting documents via email to: hgtom57@gmail.com
(Use the subject line: “Knysna Rotary Bursary 2026”).
Selected applicants may also be required to submit:
- Final Matric results (if completed in 2025)
- End-of-year tertiary results
- Proof of registration at a tertiary institution
- Student number
- Institution’s banking details
Closing Date
The closing date for the Knysna Rotary Bursary is 14 November 2025.
Contact Information
For queries regarding the bursary, applicants may contact Knysna Rotary directly:
- Email: secretary@knysnarotary.co.za / hgtom57@gmail.com
- Contact Page: knysnarotary.co.za/contact-us
