Are you a South African black girl who dreams of becoming a teacher and loves science, tech, engineering or maths? The Support Teacher Empowerment Trust (STET) is offering a chance to study these subjects at UNISA’s distance‑learning program and get paid to do it. This is the STET Bursary Programme 2026, and it’s open until 5 January 2026.
What the Bursary Looks Like
South Africa needs more teachers who can use computers and new gadgets to help students learn better. That’s why STET is looking for black women who want to study STEM subjects and then become teachers. The bursary is not just money for tuition – it’s a full package that helps you feel ready for the job. It covers lessons in coding, robotics, maths, science, computer science and other STEM fields. You’ll also get training on how to use tech in the classroom and guidance from experienced mentors.
Who Runs STET
STET is a charity that started in 2017. It was created because many schools in South Africa do not have enough qualified teachers or the right equipment. STET’s goal is to help women get the training they need to become strong teachers in high‑demand subjects. The trust works mainly with the University of South Africa (UNISA), which offers distance learning courses that anyone can take from anywhere in the country.
Why This Bursary Is Different
Typical scholarships only cover tuition fees. STET gives a more complete package:
- Money to pay for courses and living costs
- Mentorship that shows you how to lead in a school setting
- Training on computers and other digital tools
- Examples of modern teaching methods used in real classrooms
- A focus on the skills that will be needed for the future job market
The trust is especially interested in subjects that are missing in many schools, such as coding, robotics, and ICT. By helping teachers learn these subjects, STET is trying to close the digital gap in South Africa.
What You Need to Study
The bursary covers undergraduate degrees in any of the following STEM areas at UNISA:
- Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Coding and robotics courses
- Engineering‑related STEM tracks that UNISA offers
- ICT‑focused teacher training streams
Learning these subjects will make you ready to teach students about the future world and to help build South Africa’s next workforce.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible you must meet every one of these conditions:
- Be a South African citizen and identify as black
- Be a girl or woman
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Have finished high school (Matric)
- Plan to study a STEM degree at UNISA, or already be a student there
STET intentionally focuses on black women because they have historically had fewer chances to study and teach STEM subjects. The aim is to change that and create more balanced representation in schools.
How to Apply
The application is done online. Follow these easy steps:
- Open the STET bursary application page.
- Fill in the online form with all your personal details.
- Attach copies of your ID, Matric certificate, the latest school record if you’re already studying, and a motivational letter.
- Double‑check everything to make sure no information is missing.
- Click submit before 5 January 2026.
If you miss any part of the application, it will not be considered. The motivational letter is very important – this is your chance to explain why you want to study STEM, why you want to become a teacher, and how the bursary will help you and your community.
What Documents Do I Need?
Make sure you upload clear, certified copies of the following:
- Your South African ID document
- Your Matric certificate or final results
- The most recent academic record if you’re already a UNISA student
- A motivational letter covering these points:
- Why you’re interested in STEM subjects
- Why you want to become a teacher
- How this bursary will change your life and help your community
Apply Now
Ready to take the next step? Apply for the STET Bursary Programme 2026 here. Be sure to finish the form and send it before the closing date on 5 January 2026. Good luck, and remember that this is a real chance to make a difference in your future and in schools across South Africa.