If you’re a final‑year LLB student at Wits or UWC, a scholarship that honours a brave legal activist and could fund your studies is just a few weeks away. Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications until 28 February 2026.
What is the Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship?
The Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship was created by Cheadle Thompson & Haysom Inc to remember Bhekisizwe Godfrey Mlangeni, a young lawyer who was tragically killed in 1991 while fighting for justice. The scholarship celebrates his legacy, supports progressive legal education, and encourages students to uphold the Constitution’s values.
Applicants will receive financial support and may be invited to work with Cheadle Thompson & Haysom over the summer, giving you real‑world exposure to legal practice.
Who can apply?
You must meet all of the following criteria:
- South African citizen
- Enrolled in an LLB programme
- Entering your final LLB year in 2026
- Studying at either the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) or the University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Black student
- Showing financial need
- Demonstrated commitment to legal studies and a goal to promote social justice
- Excellence in Labour Law, Constitutional Law, and Administrative Law
Missing any of these points may mean your application is not considered.
What will you gain?
Besides a financial award, you’ll:
- Get a chance to work in a top South African law firm over the summer
- Build a strong professional network
- Strengthen your CV with real‑world legal experience
- Be part of a legacy that honours a hero of the anti‑apartheid movement
How to apply
There is no separate application form. You need to email the required documents directly to the university coordinator. Follow these steps:
- Prepare your documents (see list below).
- Write a short, clear email using the subject line Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship 2026.
- Attach all required documents.
- Send the email to the correct coordinator.
Documents required
- Name of the scholarship (Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship)
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of your full academic record
- Motivational letter explaining why you deserve the scholarship
- Updated CV (include your student number)
- Two reference letters
- Contact details (phone number and email address)
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Email: wanda.ndlozi@wits.ac.za
Coordinator: Wanda Ndlozi
University of the Western Cape (UWC)
Email: vjohannes@uwc.ac.za
Coordinator: Vernon Johannes
Practical tips to improve your chances
- Make sure every document is attached and correctly formatted.
- Write a concise motivational letter—focus on your goals and how the scholarship supports them.
- Ask for strong reference letters from professors who know your academic strengths in Labour, Constitutional, and Administrative Law.
- Proofread all materials to avoid typos or missing information.
- Submit well before 28 February 2026; late applications will not be accepted.
Closing date
Applications must be received by 28 February 2026. If you do not hear back, your application was not successful. Good luck!
