Access to higher education remains a challenge for many unemployed South African youth, especially those interested in careers within construction and infrastructure development. To address this gap, the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) has officially opened applications for the Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme 2026.
This bursary programme supports unemployed students who wish to study built environment qualifications at public institutions of higher learning in South Africa. It is part of CETA’s long-term strategy to develop scarce and critical skills needed to grow the country’s construction sector and support national development priorities.
What Is the Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme?
The Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme is a CETA-funded initiative aimed at increasing access to tertiary education for students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. The bursary is named in honour of leadership and transformation within skills development and focuses on qualifications that contribute directly to South Africa’s built environment.
By investing in unemployed students, CETA ensures a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals who can support infrastructure delivery, housing development, and economic growth.
Who the CETA Bursary Is Designed For
This bursary is specifically targeted at unemployed South African students who intend to study at public universities or universities of technology.
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary 2026, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be currently unemployed
- Intend to study towards a built environment qualification
- Be accepted or registered at a public institution of higher learning
- Have achieved a minimum overall academic average of 50%
- Come from a household with a combined annual income below R600,000
Applicants who do not meet all the above requirements will not be considered.
Qualifications and Fields of Study Supported
The bursary focuses on qualifications aligned with CETA’s priority skills list within the built environment. These typically include, but are not limited to:
- Civil Engineering
- Construction Management
- Quantity Surveying
- Architecture
- Town and Regional Planning
- Building Science
- Construction Project Management
- Engineering-related built environment programmes
These qualifications play a critical role in addressing skills shortages within South Africa’s construction and infrastructure sectors.
Useful Links:
What the CETA Bursary Covers
The Thapelo Madibeng Bursary offers comprehensive financial assistance to qualifying students. Funding may include:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation and meals
- Transport costs (subject to specific conditions)
- Research allowance for Master’s and PhD students only
The bursary structure ensures that students can focus on their studies without financial strain.
Mandatory Documents for Application
All applications must include clear, certified, and up-to-date documentation. Incomplete or unclear submissions may result in disqualification.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Certified copy of a South African ID
- Matric certificate or statement of results (for first-year applicants)
- Latest tertiary academic record (for second-year or returning students)
- Proof of acceptance from a public tertiary institution
- Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ ID documents
- Proof of household income (latest payslip, affidavit, or official letter)
- Affidavit confirming unemployment status
All documents must be uploaded via the official application system.
How to Apply for the CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary 2026
CETA bursary applications are submitted online only through the INDICIUM system. Applications sent via email or hand-delivered will not be accepted.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the INDICIUM online bursary platform
- Register a profile or log in if already registered
- Complete the bursary application form in full
- Upload all required supporting documents
- Submit your application before the closing date
Applicants may also access the application through the CETA website by selecting INDICIUM and navigating to the bursary section.
Important Dates to Remember
- Applications Open: 05 January 2026 at 08:00
- Applications Close: 30 January 2026 at 00:00
Late applications will not be considered.
Why the CETA Bursary Is Important in 2026
South Africa continues to face high youth unemployment and skills shortages in technical and infrastructure-related fields. The Thapelo Madibeng Bursary addresses these challenges by:
- Expanding access to higher education
- Supporting unemployed youth from low-income households
- Developing scarce and critical construction skills
- Promoting transformation in the built environment sector
- Strengthening the national skills pipeline
For many students, this bursary represents a critical opportunity to enter a professional career that contributes to national development.
Selection and Assessment Process
All applications undergo a structured evaluation process based on:
- Academic performance
- Financial need
- Alignment with CETA priority qualifications
- Availability of bursary funding
- Compliance with eligibility criteria
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee funding, as bursary awards are competitive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the CETA bursary available for private colleges?
No. The bursary is only available for public institutions of higher learning.
Can employed students apply?
No. Applicants must be unemployed at the time of application.
Does the bursary fund postgraduate studies?
Yes. Master’s and PhD students may receive research allowances.
Is proof of university acceptance required?
Yes. Proof of acceptance is mandatory for all applicants.
How will successful applicants be notified?
CETA will contact shortlisted and successful applicants through official communication channels.
Final Thoughts
The CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme 2026 offers more than financial support—it provides access to education, professional growth, and long-term career opportunities within South Africa’s construction and infrastructure sectors.
Applicants are encouraged to prepare their documentation carefully, apply early, and ensure all information is accurate before submission.
