iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority invites eligible South African students to apply for the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 16 February 2026
This bursary opportunity is aimed at KwaZulu-Natal learners entering their first year of study, particularly those from land claimant and neighbouring communities, who are passionate about conservation, tourism, and sustainable development.
About the Bursary Provider – iSimangaliso Wetland Park
iSimangaliso Wetland Park is located in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, and is one of the country’s largest and most ecologically diverse protected areas. Formerly known as the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, it was renamed iSimangaliso—meaning “miracle” or “wonder” in isiZulu.
In 1999, the park became South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its exceptional natural beauty and biodiversity. The park features:
- Three major lake systems
- Eight interlinking ecosystems
- Africa’s largest estuarine system
- Over 500 bird species
- Ancient coastal dunes dating back more than 20 000 years
Since launching its bursary programme in 2010, iSimangaliso has supported over 140 students, investing in education, conservation leadership, and community upliftment.
About the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursary Programme
The iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority is offering bursaries for the 2026 academic year to students residing in KwaZulu-Natal, specifically:
- Verified members of iSimangaliso Land Claimant Communities, or
- Residents of areas within the uMkhanyakude District Municipality close to the park, or
- Residents of the Mfolozi Local Municipality, particularly the Sokhulu area
Fields of Study Covered
Bursaries will be awarded for studies in Conservation, Tourism, or related disciplines, including but not limited to:
- Conservation
- Social Sciences
- Development Studies
- Tourism
- Finance
- Information Technology
- Human Resources
- Engineering
- Infrastructure
- Supply Chain Management
Approved Institutions
Applicants must be accepted to study at one of the following institutions:
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of Zululand (UniZulu)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
What the Bursary Covers
The iSimangaliso bursary offers partial funding, especially for students who are NSFAS funded. Support may include:
- Laptops
- Data
- Travel expenses
- Meals
In addition to financial assistance, the programme provides:
- Psychosocial support to help students adjust to university life
- Academic support to improve throughput and graduation rates
- Work-readiness training, skills development workshops, and community service opportunities during university holidays
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be a verifiable member of an iSimangaliso Land Claimant Community, or a resident of qualifying neighbouring communities
- Must intend to study Conservation, Tourism, or a related discipline
- Must be entering first year of study in 2026
- Must be accepted at UKZN, UniZulu, MUT, or DUT
- Must have applied for NSFAS or already be awarded NSFAS funding
- Must have a passion for nature and conservation
How to Apply for the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursary 2026
Step 1: Download the Application Form
Download and complete the official bursary application form:
👉 https://resources.isimangaliso.com/images/files/education/Application%20form_Tertiary%20Edu%20Support%202026.pdf
When asked how you heard about the bursary, enter: www.zabursaries.co.za
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Submit clear copies of the following documents (all are compulsory):
- Certified copy of ID
- Proof of NSFAS bursary application or award
- Proof of registration or acceptance to UKZN, UniZulu, MUT, or DUT
- Proof of residence
- Land claimant applicants: Official letter from the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees confirming membership
- Neighbouring community applicants: Letter from local leader or councillor confirming residence and duration
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Email your completed application and documents to:
📧 nosipho@isimangaliso.com
Email subject line: iSimangaliso Bursary 2026
Closing Date
16 February 2026
Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the closing date.