Want a scholarship to study in the Eastern Cape?
The Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) is looking for students from the Eastern Cape who want to study subjects that help the province grow and stay green. If you finished high school and plan to start a university course in 2026, this DEDEAT Bursary could cover your tuition and living costs. The deadline to apply is 31 December 2025, so make sure you get all your papers in on time.
What the DEDEAT Bursary is All About
The bursary is a way for DEDEAT to create a new generation of people who can help the Eastern Cape build jobs, protect nature and make research that matters. It is aimed at students who come from communities that have historically had fewer chances to study. The money goes to courses that touch on economic planning, environmental protection, clean energy, and science.
Key focus areas:
- Planning for a stronger economy
- Managing nature and keeping it safe
- Fighting climate change and cleaning up pollution
- Developing energy that does not harm the planet
- Doing research and writing useful policy
Which Subjects Can You Study?
Bursaries are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Here are the fields that get the most attention:
Economics and Development
- Business Law (focus on consumer studies)
- Bachelor of Commerce / Bachelor of Arts in:
- Statistics
- Human Ecology and Community Development
- International Studies
(These have a special interest in statistics, infrastructure, and transport)
- Bachelor of Science in Energy Studies
- Master’s in Renewable and Sustainable Development (energy focus)
- BTech or BSc in Agri‑Economics (includes manufacturing, agriculture, urban planning, and industrial engineering)
Environmental Topics
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science – Waste Management
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science – Air Quality Management (focus on pollution control)
- Degree programs in:
- Environmental Policy Planning
- Environmental Design
- Sociology
- Environmental Economics (research and policy)
- Environmental Management, Biodiversity, Coastal or Marine Management, Climate Change (management focus)
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Chemistry
- Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology (scientific studies)
Who Can Apply?
You must check all the boxes below to be considered:
- Be a South African citizen
- Live in the Eastern Cape
- Have finished matric (high school)
- Be starting or already studying a listed course in 2026 at an accredited South African university
- Come from a previously disadvantaged community
Extra points go to students who:
- Have not taken another qualification after high school
- Have never received a DEDEAT bursary before
- Have passed all the necessary subjects for the chosen course
Missing any of these requirements could mean your application is not accepted.
How to Get Your Application
Grab a form – Go to any of the DEDEAT offices in person to pick up a paper or download it online.
Fill it out – Write your details clearly, check every box, and sign where asked.
Gather your documents – You need clean, certified copies of:
- A recent passport‑size photo
- Your South African ID
- Your matric final results or certificate
- An acceptance letter from your chosen university (official letterhead)
- Your full academic record if you’re already studying
- IDs of your parents or guardians if needed
- Proof of how much money your household makes (payslips or an affidavit if no job)
- Proof that you live in the Eastern Cape
If any of these papers are missing, your application may be rejected.
Send it all in – Drop your completed form and documents at the DEDEAT office or send them by mail.
Don’t Miss the Deadline
The last day to submit a complete application is 31 December 2025. After this date, no more applications will be taken. Plan ahead so you’re ready before the final day.
Why This Matters
If you’re excited about building a future that balances jobs, clean air and water, and smart science, this scholarship can give you the financial support you need. It’s a chance to study at a good university and later work in a job that can make a real difference in your community and the rest of the province.
Ready to apply? Click here to apply now – the application link will take you straight to the DEDEAT application page where you can start the process. Good luck!