The South African National Parks (SANParks) invites applications from aspiring youth for its 2027 External Bursary Programme.

This bursary supports students—especially those from communities near national parks—who want to pursue studies that contribute to environmental sustainability, community development, and scarce skills.

Closing Date: 21 August 2026
Apply via Email: happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org

Overview

SANParks is responsible for conserving South Africa’s biodiversity, landscapes, and heritage while ensuring community involvement and socio-economic development.

This bursary aims to:

Support youth from communities near national parks
Promote access to education and skills development
Encourage careers that support environmental and community sustainability

This is a comprehensive bursary.

Fields of Study

The bursary covers Degree & National Diploma programmes, including:

Environmental Sciences

Nature Conservation
Environmental Management
Environmental Engineering
Green Energy
Sustainable Development
Game Ranch Management

Tourism

Hospitality Management
Tourism Management
Resort Management
Tour Guiding
Events & Conference Management

Social Sciences

Community Development
Economic Development
Socio-Economic Development

Infrastructure & Built Environment

Civil Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Construction Management
Quantity Surveying
Architecture
Project Management

Technical & Artisan Trades

Electricians, Plumbers, Welders
Millwrights, Mechanics
Solar & Refrigeration Technicians
Water & Wastewater Technicians

Emerging Scarce Skills

GIS & Analytics
Cybersecurity
Renewable Energy
Climate Change Adaptation
Biodiversity Economics
Entrepreneurship

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

Be a South African citizen
Be from a community adjacent to a National Park
Be entering post-matric studies in 2027
Be aged 18 – 35 years
Have applied/been accepted at an accredited institution
Be studying full-time (University, TVET, or College)
Have household income below R350,000 per year

For current students:

Must have a 100% pass rate (all registered modules passed)

Required Documents

Submit the following:

Motivation letter (include field of study)
Updated CV
Certified ID copy
Latest academic results
Acceptance letter from institution
Proof of residential address
Affidavit (if receiving social grant / low income proof)

Missing documents = automatic disqualification.

How to Apply

Send your complete application to:

happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org

Enquiries: 012 426 5173

Important Notes

Applications must be for full-time study
Only accredited public institutions are accepted
If you do not hear back, consider your application unsuccessful

Final Tip

This bursary is ideal if you:

Live near a National Park
Want to build a career in environmental, technical, or community-focused fields
Are passionate about sustainability and development

APPLY NOW