The UYDF 2026 Scholarship Bursary offers top-up financial support for NSFAS-funded health sciences students from rural KwaZulu-Natal communities. Learn about eligibility, funded fields, and how to apply.
The Umthombo Youth Development Foundation (UYDF) Scholarship Bursary Programme for 2026 is now open, offering much-needed financial support to South African students pursuing health sciences qualifications. This programme is specifically designed for students who already receive NSFAS funding but still face financial gaps that make it difficult to complete their studies.
With a strong focus on rural development and healthcare capacity building, UYDF continues to play a vital role in strengthening South Africa’s public health system by supporting students who are committed to serving under-resourced communities.
About the Umthombo Youth Development Foundation (UYDF)
The Umthombo Youth Development Foundation is a respected non-profit organisation that focuses on developing healthcare professionals from rural and underserved areas. For many years, UYDF has worked closely with students, training institutions, and healthcare facilities to ensure that rural communities are not left behind when it comes to access to skilled health professionals.
The UYDF bursary programme is more than just financial support. It is a long-term investment in community-based healthcare, prioritising students who show academic ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to returning skills to areas where they are needed most.
What Is the UYDF Scholarship Bursary Programme 2026?
The UYDF 2026 Scholarship Bursary Programme is a top-up funding initiative. This means it does not replace NSFAS, but rather supplements it. Many health sciences students face additional costs that NSFAS does not fully cover, particularly due to the demanding and practical nature of healthcare training.
This bursary helps bridge that gap, allowing students to focus on their studies without constant financial pressure.
Who Should Apply for the UYDF Bursary 2026?
This bursary is aimed at a very specific group of students. You should consider applying if you are currently studying or planning to study a health sciences qualification, already receive NSFAS funding, and require additional financial support to continue your studies.
Preference is given to students from rural and underserved districts in KwaZulu-Natal, including uMkhanyakude and Zululand, as well as other identified rural districts within the province. The programme strongly prioritises students who demonstrate both financial need and a commitment to community service.
Fields of Study Funded by UYDF
The UYDF bursary supports only selected health sciences qualifications. Applications will be considered for students studying in the following fields:
Audiology
Dentistry
Dental Therapy
Nursing
Occupational Therapy
Physiotherapy
Radiography, including Ultrasonography
Speech and Language Therapy
Applications outside these disciplines will not be considered, as the programme is specifically aligned with healthcare skills development.
What the UYDF Scholarship Covers
The UYDF bursary functions as additional financial assistance on top of NSFAS. While the exact amount awarded differs from student to student, depending on need and available funding, the bursary generally assists with outstanding study-related costs that are not fully covered by NSFAS.
This may include academic-related expenses and other essential costs linked to health sciences training. Final funding decisions are made by UYDF after a full assessment of each application.
How to Apply for the UYDF Bursary 2026
All applications must be completed online using the official UYDF application platform.
Applicants are required to complete the bursary application form accurately and in full. It is important to ensure that all requested information is provided, as incomplete or incorrect applications are not considered.
Online application link:
https://in-contact.org/rsvp?site=20&id=1&type=F
Important Dates
The closing date for the UYDF 2026 Scholarship Bursary Programme is 31 December 2025.
Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the deadline to avoid technical issues or last-minute delays.
Contact Details for Enquiries
For bursary-related questions, applicants may contact UYDF directly during office hours:
Contact person: Cebile Zungu
Telephone: 031 765 5774
Email: Cebile@umthomboyouth.org.za
Why the UYDF Bursary Matters
Health sciences qualifications are demanding, both academically and financially. For students from rural communities, the challenges are often even greater. The UYDF bursary plays a crucial role in ensuring that talented students are not forced to abandon their studies due to funding gaps.
By supporting students who already receive NSFAS, UYDF strengthens the healthcare pipeline and helps ensure that rural communities benefit from trained professionals who understand their realities and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I do not receive NSFAS?
No. This bursary is strictly for students who already receive NSFAS and need additional top-up funding.
Does UYDF fund non-healthcare qualifications?
No. Only the listed health sciences fields are supported.
Is the bursary available to students outside KwaZulu-Natal?
Preference is given to students from rural districts in KwaZulu-Natal, particularly uMkhanyakude and Zululand.
Are postgraduate students eligible?
Eligibility depends on programme requirements and available funding. This should be confirmed during the application process.
Conclusion
The UYDF 2026 Scholarship Bursary Programme is a valuable opportunity for NSFAS-funded health sciences students who need extra financial support to complete their studies. With its strong focus on rural development, healthcare skills, and community service, this bursary continues to make a meaningful impact in South Africa’s public health sector.
If you meet the requirements, ensure your application is accurate, complete, and submitted on time. For many students, this bursary can be the support that makes it possible to finish a qualification and build a career that truly changes lives.
