Introduction
Government vacancies in South Africa remain some of the most stable and career-building opportunities available, especially for candidates with administrative and public sector experience. Positions linked to education funding and bursary management are particularly important because they directly support student success and skills development.
The Bursary Officer vacancies for 2026 present a strong opportunity for qualified candidates to work within a structured government environment. Based in Pretoria, these roles offer a competitive salary, clear responsibilities, and the chance to contribute to national skills development initiatives.
For professionals with experience in bursary administration, database management, and student support, this could be a valuable next step in a long-term public service career.
What Is the Bursary Officer Vacancy 2026?
The Bursary Officer position (Ref No. 3/3/1/21/2026) is a government role within the Directorate: Sector Education and Training, responsible for managing and administering bursary programmes.
The posts are based in Pretoria, with two positions available. The role focuses on coordinating bursary processes, supporting students, managing data, and ensuring compliance with education and funding policies.
This is not an entry-level role—it requires both relevant qualifications and experience in bursary or student administration.
Background / Purpose
Bursary programmes play a critical role in expanding access to education and addressing skills shortages in South Africa.
The purpose of this role is to:
- Ensure fair and efficient allocation of bursaries
- Support students throughout their academic journey
- Monitor the use of bursary funds
- Align funding with national skills priorities (such as agriculture and development sectors)
Bursary Officers act as a bridge between government funding and student success, ensuring that financial support translates into meaningful educational outcomes.
How It Works
Successful candidates will work within the Directorate to manage the full lifecycle of bursary programmes.
This includes:
- Advertising bursary opportunities
- Processing and evaluating applications
- Coordinating selection and award processes
- Managing student records and databases
- Monitoring academic progress and fund usage
The role combines administration, coordination, and stakeholder engagement, requiring both technical and interpersonal skills.
Key Features / Job Highlights
- Government position with stable employment structure
- Two available posts in Pretoria
- Salary: R325,101 per annum (Level 07)
- Work within Sector Education and Training Directorate
- Involvement in national bursary programme administration
- Exposure to policy frameworks and skills development systems
Table Summary of Important Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Bursary Officer |
| Reference Number | 3/3/1/21/2026 |
| Number of Posts | 2 |
| Location | Pretoria, Gauteng |
| Salary | R325,101 per annum (Level 07) |
| Directorate | Sector Education and Training |
| Qualification Required | NQF Level 6 Diploma or Degree |
| Experience Required | Minimum 2 years in bursary/admin environment |
| Application Method | Email or hand delivery |
Who Can Apply / Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Minimum Qualifications:
- A 3-year Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6) in:
- Administration
- Public Administration
- Public Management
- Office Management
- Management Assistant
Experience:
- At least 2 years’ experience in:
- Bursary administration
- Information or database management
- Working with students in higher education institutions
Additional Requirements:
- Valid driver’s licence
Job Knowledge and Skills
Required Knowledge:
- Project Management
- Monitoring and Evaluation
- Skills Development Act
- South African Qualifications Authority Act
- Further Education and Training Qualification Act
Key Skills:
- Facilitation and coordination
- Planning and organisation
- Interpersonal communication
- Problem-solving
- Initiative and attention to detail
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The role includes a wide range of responsibilities across bursary management:
Bursary Administration:
- Recruit and select bursary beneficiaries
- Advertise bursary opportunities nationally
- Handle and process applications
- Prepare selection documentation
Student Support:
- Issue award letters and manage contracts
- Respond to queries and appeals
- Coordinate communication with institutions
Financial and Data Management:
- Maintain and update bursary databases
- Process payments (tuition, accommodation, allowances)
- Monitor expenditure and verify student accounts
- Reconcile payments with funding schedules
Monitoring and Reporting:
- Conduct bursary monitoring meetings
- Compile reports (monthly, quarterly, annual)
- Prepare documentation for audits
- Track student progress and compliance
Career Support:
- Facilitate internships and experiential training
- Assist students with CV writing and job readiness
- Link graduates with employers and industry opportunities
Important Things to Know / Practical Tips
Before applying, keep these key points in mind:
- Experience matters: Ensure your CV clearly reflects bursary or student administration work
- Highlight systems knowledge: Database and reporting experience is highly valued
- Show policy awareness: Understanding education legislation strengthens your application
- Prepare a structured CV: Focus on relevant duties, not general experience
Equity Note:
Preference will be given to African males, White males, and persons with disabilities, in line with employment equity targets.
Application Process
Applications can be submitted through:
Email:
Borecruit21@nda.gov.za
Hand Delivery Address:
20 Steve Biko Street
Agriculture Place
Arcadia
Pretoria, 0002
Enquiries:
Mr Phillemon Mathebula
Tel: (012) 319 7843
Ensure your application is complete, clearly structured, and submitted within official office hours if applying by hand.
Conclusion
The Bursary Officer vacancies for 2026 offer a meaningful opportunity to contribute to South Africa’s education and skills development system.
With a solid salary, structured responsibilities, and direct impact on student success, this role is well-suited for professionals with experience in administration and bursary management.
For eligible candidates, applying early with a focused and professional application can significantly improve your chances of securing one of the two available posts.
FAQ
1. What qualification is required for this job?
A minimum NQF Level 6 Diploma or Degree in Administration or a related field is required.
2. How much experience is needed?
At least 2 years of experience in bursary administration or related work.
3. Where is the job located?
The position is based in Pretoria, Gauteng.
4. Can I apply without a driver’s licence?
No. A valid driver’s licence is a requirement.
5. How do I submit my application?
You can apply via email or hand delivery to the specified government address.
