The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture is inviting students to apply for its bursary programme for the 2026 academic year. This initiative is aimed at supporting young South Africans who wish to pursue studies in agriculture-related fields while contributing to the province’s rural development and food security.
Closing Date
Applications close on 10 November 2025.
About the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture
The Department of Agriculture in the Eastern Cape operates within the framework of the South African Constitution as well as provincial development policies. Its mandate is to drive rural growth, land reform, and food security programmes across the province, ensuring long-term sustainability for communities.
By offering bursaries, the Department helps to build critical skills in areas of agriculture and veterinary sciences while creating employment opportunities for young people.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary is available for the following degrees:
- Agricultural Engineering / Bio-Resource Engineering (BSc Degree)
- Veterinary Technology (BHSc Degree)
What the Bursary Covers
The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture bursary provides financial support for:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Prescribed textbooks
Please note: The bursary does not cover historical debt or outstanding fees.
Service Contract
Successful bursary recipients will be required to work for the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture after graduation. The service period will match the number of years funded by the bursary.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Useful links:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric/NCV
- Must meet subject requirements:
- Agricultural Engineering / Bio-Resource Engineering – Mathematics and Physical Science
- Veterinary Technology – Life Science, Physical Science, and Mathematics
- Must be studying or intending to study within one of the listed fields
- Must be registered or intending to register at a recognised Higher Education Institution in South Africa
- Must be unemployed
- Must demonstrate financial need:
- Household income not more than R350 000 per year, or R600 000 if living with a disability
- Preference will be given to:
- Youth from the Eastern Cape
- Applicants from historically disadvantaged groups
- Unemployed youth
(However, students from outside the province may also apply.)
How to Apply
- Download and complete the official EC Department of Agriculture Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf).
- Submit your completed application and all supporting documents via email to: bursary@ecagriculture.gov.za
- Use the subject line: “DOA Bursary 2026”.
Applications sent by fax or hand delivery will not be accepted.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit the following:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Latest Matric/NCV results (if currently in Matric)
- Certified copy of Matric/NCV certificate (if completed)
- Full academic record (if currently studying)
- Proof of admission / provisional admission / registration at a Higher Education Institution
- Proof of residence from a local municipality (not older than 3 months)
- Parents’/guardians’ proof of household income (latest payslips, affidavit if unemployed, or proof of social grant)
- Certified copies of parents’/guardians’ ID documents
- Proof of any other bursary or sponsorship (if applicable)
- Youth with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply
Contact Details
For queries related to the bursary, applicants may contact:
- Mrs Ndileka Guzana – 083 451 7445
- Mr Mfundiso Nzimande – 082 868 1404
Conclusion
The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture Bursary 2026 is a valuable opportunity for students who want to pursue studies in Agricultural Engineering or Veterinary Technology while contributing to food security and rural development in South Africa. With full coverage of study-related costs and a guaranteed work-back opportunity, this bursary provides both financial relief and career growth.
If you meet the requirements, make sure to submit your application before 10 November 2025.
