Hey future university students! If you live in the Eastern Cape and want to study for free, the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) has a chance for you. They’re giving out a bursary for the 2026 academic year that covers tuition and some extra costs for people who want to learn about the economy and the environment. This is a great way to get a degree in a field that can help the province grow and keep its natural resources safe.
Bursary application deadline: 31 December 2025
Where it applies: Eastern Cape Province
Length: Full 2026 academic year
What the Bursary Covers
The DEDEAT bursary is aimed at students from communities that have faced disadvantages. If you meet the academic and residency rules, you could receive money for a university course in fields that are important for the future of our province – like growing businesses, protecting the environment, and building smart cities.
Subjects you can study
The department is looking for applicants who are either already in or plan to start a degree in one of the following areas.
Economic Development
Consumer Studies
Energy Studies
- BSc in Energy Studies
- Masters in Renewable & Sustainable Development
Manufacturing, Agriculture, Urban Planning, Industrial Engineering
- BTech/BSc in Agri‑Economics
- BTech/BSc in Industrial Engineering
- BTech/BSc in Urban Planning
Statistics, Development Infrastructure, Transport Economics
- BCom in Statistics
- BA in Human Ecology and Community Development
- Bachelor of Community Development
- BA in International Studies
- Bachelor in Transport Economics
Environmental Affairs
Pollution & Waste Management
- BSc in Environmental Science (Waste Management)
- BSc in Environmental Science (Air Quality Management)
Environmental Research & Policy Development
- Degree in Environmental Policy, Planning, Design, Sociology or Environmental Economics
Environmental Management
- Degree in Environmental Management
- BSc in Biodiversity Studies
- BSc in Coastal or Marine Management
- BSc in Climate Change Studies
Scientific Studies
- BSc in Environmental Chemistry
- BSc in Marine Biology
Bursary Requirements
To be considered, you must send these documents:
- Full bursary application form
- Certified copy of your ID
- Proof that you have been accepted or are applying to a recognised university
- Certified Grade‑12 results or your most recent transcript
- Proof of your parents’ or guardian’s income (payslip or affidavit)
- Proof of your home address
- Affidavit that shows you live in the Eastern Cape Province
Only students who live in the Eastern Cape will be considered.
Who gets the Best Chance
- Students who have not yet finished a post‑matric qualification
- First‑time recipients of a DEDEAT bursary
- Those who have passed all required subjects
- First‑time second‑year students who provide their first‑year results
How to Apply for the DEDEAT Bursary 2026
Ready to take the next step? Send your application by email before 31 December 2025. The application can also be picked up in person at the office below.
Application Forms and Contacts
Head Office – Bhisho
Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism
1st Floor, Chungwa Building, Bhisho 5605
Private Bag X0054, Bhisho, 5605
Contact: Mr Thabo Manentsa
Phone: 066 486 8229
Email: thabo.manentsa@dedea.gov.za