The Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) invites South African unemployed youth to apply for the Industrial Futures Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year.
Bursary Application Opening Date: 30 January 2026
Bursary Application Closing Date: 27 February 2026 at 15:00
This bursary is aimed at young people who want to pursue chemical- and manufacturing-related qualifications at public universities and TVET colleges, while removing financial barriers to study and building scarce skills for South Africa’s industrial economy.
About the Bursary Provider – Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority
CHIETA is the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) responsible for skills development within the chemical industries sector in South Africa. The authority plays a critical role in funding education and training initiatives that support industrial growth, innovation, and employment creation.
Through the Industrial Futures Bursary, CHIETA invests in developing the next generation of professionals needed in manufacturing, engineering, laboratory sciences, and related industrial fields.
What Is the CHIETA Industrial Futures Bursary?
The CHIETA Industrial Futures Bursary is a funding programme designed to support academically strong but financially constrained youth who wish to study qualifications aligned with the chemical industry.
The bursary focuses on building capacity in sectors such as:
- Manufacturing
- Petrochemicals
- Laboratory sciences
- Engineering
- Process operations
- Industrial and manufacturing technology
This programme is not only about funding tuition—it is about positioning young South Africans for sustainable, in-demand careers in technical and industrial fields.
Quick Overview
- Programme: CHIETA Industrial Futures Bursary 2026
- Target Group: Unemployed South African youth (16–35 years)
- Institutions: Public universities and TVET colleges
- Funding Support:
- Tuition fees up to R76 000 per year
- Textbooks and approved academic costs (subject to availability)
- Application Window: 30 January – 27 February 2026 (15:00)
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be an unemployed South African citizen aged 16–35 years
- Have completed Matric with Mathematics and Physical Science
- Achieved a minimum overall average of 75%
- Be accepted for the 2026 academic year at a public university or TVET college
- Be registered or accepted for a chemical industry–related qualification
- Come from a household with a combined income of R600 000 or less per year
Priority is given to students with strong academic potential and financial need.
What the Bursary Covers
The CHIETA Industrial Futures Bursary provides meaningful financial support, including:
- Tuition fees (up to R76 000 per annum)
- Textbooks and approved academic costs, where funding allows
This support enables students to focus on their studies without constant financial pressure.
Qualifications Supported
The bursary supports qualifications aligned to the chemical and manufacturing industries, including but not limited to:
- Chemical Engineering
- Analytical Chemistry
- Industrial Chemistry
- Polymer Science
- Biotechnology
- Process Engineering
- Laboratory Technology
- Environmental Science
- Manufacturing Technology
Both university and TVET college programmes are eligible if aligned with sector priorities.
How to Apply for the CHIETA Industrial Futures Bursary 2026
Applications must be submitted online.
Click here to apply for the CHIETA Industrial Futures Bursary 2026
Application steps:
- Create an account on the CHIETA bursary system
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all required supporting documents
- Submit your application before the closing date
Typical documents required:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Proof of acceptance from a university or TVET college
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of household income
Enquiries
- Email: bursary@chieta.org.za
- Tel: 087 357 6623
Closing Date
27 February 2026 at 15:00
Late applications will not be considered.