Looking for a way to start a career in the chemical industry?
The Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) is opening a scholarship called the Industrial Futures Bursary for 2026. This scholarship can help South African youth who are not working right now to study in fields like chemistry, engineering and manufacturing at public universities or TVET colleges. By covering tuition and some book costs, it removes money barriers and gives you a chance to build skills that are in high demand in South Africa’s industrial sector.
About CHIETA
CHIETA is the body that decides what skills need to be taught in the chemical sector in South Africa. It funds programs that grow the industry, create jobs and help students learn practical skills. The Industrial Futures Bursary is one of its key projects, aiming to supply the next wave of workers for labs, factories and engineering teams.
What the Bursary is All About
The Industrial Futures Bursary is a scholarship for people who are academically good but can’t afford to study. It is not just a money gift for tuition; it also offers textbooks and approved learning materials when possible. The main goal is to put young South Africans on a steady path to a technical career in chemistry, manufacturing or related areas.
Quick Snapshot
- Program name: CHIETA Industrial Futures Bursary 2026
- Who it’s for: Unemployed South Africans aged 16‑35
- Where to study: Public universities and TVET colleges
- Funding: Up to R76 000 a year for tuition and some books
- When to apply: 30 January 2026 – 27 February 2026 (cut‑off 15:00)
Who Can Apply?
You must meet every single requirement:
- Be a South African citizen who is currently not working.
- Be between 16 and 35 years old.
- Finish Matric with Mathematics and Physical Science.
- Have a minimum overall average of 75 %.
- Be accepted for the 2026 academic year at a public university or TVET college.
- Be enrolled in a course that is linked to the chemical industry.
- Come from a home whose combined yearly income is R600 000 or less.
Students who show strong academic potential and real financial need get priority.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
- Tuition fees up to R76 000 a year.
- Textbooks and other approved study costs, where funds allow.
With this support, you can concentrate on your classes instead of worrying about how to pay.
Courses That Qualify
The scholarship looks at programs that line up with the chemical and manufacturing sectors. Some examples are:
- Chemical Engineering
- Analytical Chemistry
- Industrial Chemistry
- Polymer Science
- Biotechnology
- Process Engineering
- Laboratory Technology
- Environmental Science
- Manufacturing Technology
Both university and TVET courses count if they fit the sector’s needs.
How to Apply
- Create an account on the CHIETA bursary system.
- Fill out the online form carefully.
- Upload all required documents (see list below).
- Submit before 27 February at 15:00.
Documents you’ll need:
- A certified copy of your South African ID.
- Your Matric certificate.
- Proof that you’ve been accepted into a university or TVET college.
- Academic transcripts.
- Proof of your household income.
When you’re ready, click the link below to start your application.
Apply now for the CHIETA Industrial Futures Bursary 2026
Need More Information?
If you have questions, you can usually reach out through the contact details on the CHIETA website.
Remember the Deadline
The last date to send in your application is 27 February 2026 at 15:00. Once the clock stops, no more applications will be taken into account.
Take a step toward a future in science and industry.
If you’re ready to work toward a stable and in‑demand career, this bursary could be the start you need. Check the details, gather your papers, and apply before the deadline. Good luck!