The Johannes Phumani Phungula Municipality has officially opened applications for its Financial Assistance and Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. This bursary is aimed at supporting financially deserving students while simultaneously addressing critical skills shortages within the municipality.
The programme targets both first-year students entering tertiary education and existing bursary holders who are continuing their studies at recognised institutions. For students living within the municipality’s jurisdiction, this bursary can significantly ease the financial burden of higher education and create a clear pathway toward scarce municipal skills.
Fields of Study Funded
Financial assistance will be awarded to students pursuing full qualifications in the municipality’s identified priority fields. These areas have been selected based on long-term skills needs within the local government environment.
The funded fields include:
- Finance Management and Accounting Studies
- Town Planning
- Civil Engineering
- Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
- Agriculture
Priority is given to these municipal priority skills, meaning applicants studying within these fields stand a stronger chance of selection.
What the Bursary Covers
This is a full bursary and not partial financial support. Successful applicants will receive comprehensive funding that allows them to focus on their studies without constant financial pressure.
The bursary covers:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation
- Meals
This support structure is designed to ensure that qualifying students can complete their studies under stable and supportive conditions.
Who Should Apply
You are encouraged to apply if you meet the following criteria:
- You are a resident of Johannes Phumani Phungula Municipality
- You are entering your first year of study in 2026, or you are an existing bursary holder continuing your studies
- You have been accepted at a recognised tertiary institution
- You are studying, or intend to study, one of the approved priority fields
Minimum Requirements and Required Documents
Applicants must submit all required documentation. Missing documents may lead to automatic disqualification.
The required documents are:
- A certified copy of a valid Matric certificate
- A certified copy of a South African ID (green bar-coded ID or Smart ID)
- Proof of acceptance from a recognised tertiary institution for the current academic year
- The institution’s fee structure and banking details
- Correct personal contact details
- A signed bursary application form that is dated and stamped by your Ward Councillor
All copies must be clear, legible, and properly certified.
How to Get the Bursary Application Form
The bursary application form can be obtained using one of the following methods.
Applicants may collect the form in person from the Municipality Offices during working hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 08:00 to 16:30
- Friday: 08:00 to 16:00
Alternatively, the form can be downloaded online using the official municipal link provided by Johannes Phumani Phungula Municipality.
Applicants are advised to obtain the form early to avoid delays or last-minute complications.
How to Submit Your Application
Completed applications must be submitted either by post or by hand delivery. No other submission methods are accepted.
Postal submissions should be sent to:
The Municipal Manager
Attention: ME Mkhize
P.O. Box 132
Ixopo
3276
Hand-delivered applications must be submitted to:
29 Margaret Street
Ixopo
KwaZulu-Natal
3276
Applications must be submitted by 12h00 on 20 January 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Enquiries
For enquiries and clarification only, applicants may contact:
Mrs M Modi
Telephone: 039 201 0378
Enquiries should be made during office hours, and applicants are advised to have their ID number available when calling.
Conclusion
The Johannes Phumani Phungula Municipality Bursary Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for local students to access full financial support while studying in fields that are critical to municipal development. By investing in priority skills such as engineering, finance, planning, agriculture, and GIS, the municipality is building a pipeline of future professionals who can contribute meaningfully to local governance and service delivery.
For students who meet the criteria and are committed to their academic journey, this bursary can provide both financial relief and a strong foundation for a career aligned with municipal needs.
