The South African National Parks (SANParks) bursary for 2025 is a fantastic opportunity for students who are passionate about environmental conservation. This bursary supports students in pursuing higher education in fields related to environmental sciences, social sciences, and tourism. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for this prestigious bursary.
About SANParks
South African National Parks (SANParks) was established under the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No 57 of 2003). SANParks’ primary mission is to manage and conserve South Africa’s landscapes, biodiversity, and heritage through a system of national parks. The organization also aims to promote biodiversity initiatives and ensure that its operations benefit neighboring communities economically and socio-economically.
List of National Parks Managed by SANParks:
- Addo Elephant National Park (Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape)
- Agulhas National Park (Agulhas, Western Cape)
- Augrabies Falls National Park (Upington, Northern Cape)
- Bontebok National Park (Swellendam, Western Cape)
- Camdeboo National Park (Graaff Reinet, Eastern Cape)
- Garden Route National Park (Wilderness/Knysna/Storms River, Western Cape)
- Golden Gate Highlands National Park (Clarens, Free State)
- Karoo National Park (Beaufort West, Western Cape)
- Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (Upington, Northern Cape)
- Kruger National Park (Skukuza/Phalaborwa/Malelane, Mpumalanga)
- Mapungubwe National Park (All Days/Musina, Limpopo)
- Marakele National Park (Thabazimbi, Limpopo)
- Mokala National Park (Kimberley, Northern Cape)
- Mountain Zebra National Park (Cradock, Eastern Cape)
- Namaqua National Park (Springbok, Northern Cape)
- Table Mountain National Park (Cape Town, Western Cape)
- Tankwa Karoo National Park (Ceres, Western Cape)
- West Coast National Park (Langebaan, Western Cape)
- |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park (Sendelingsdrif, Northern Cape)
About the SANParks Bursary Programme
Fields Covered:
The bursary is intended for students pursuing an undergraduate National Diploma or Degree in the following fields:
- Environmental Sciences: Nature Conservation, Environmental Management, Green Energy, Environmental Engineering, Sustainable Development, Game Ranch Management.
- Social Sciences: Community Development, Economic Development, Socio-Economic Development, and related Development studies.
- Tourism: Hospitality Management, Resort Management, Tour Guide, Events and Conference Management.
This bursary aims to support young individuals residing in communities surrounding the national parks.
Bursary Coverage and Benefits:
The SANParks bursary provides comprehensive financial support, including:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation
- Meals
- A monthly stipend
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the SANParks bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Reside in communities near national parks.
- Be currently in Matric (2024) or have completed Matric.
- Be studying or intend to study towards an undergraduate full-time Diploma or Degree in one of the fields listed above.
- Be studying or have been accepted to study at an accredited public institution of higher education in South Africa (University, University of Technology, TVET college).
- Have passed all registered courses if currently studying.
How to Apply
- Prepare Your Application: Gather all required documents.
- Email Your Application: Submit your application to [email protected] with the subject line “SANParks Bursary 2025”.
Required Documents:
- Certified copy of your ID document.
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate or latest Matric report.
- Certified copy of your most recent academic record if currently studying.
- Acceptance letter from your tertiary institution (on institution letterhead).
- Proof of address.
- Motivational letter explaining why you need the bursary and your chosen field of study.
- Comprehensive and updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Affidavit showing that your income is below the threshold (if receiving a social grant).
Application Deadline
Closing Date: 17 August 2024. Ensure your application is submitted before this date to be considered.
Contact Information
For any queries related to the bursary programme, please contact SANParks directly:
- Contact Person: Happy Nhlangwini
- Telephone: 012 426 5173
- Email: [email protected]
Conclusion
The SANParks bursary is an excellent opportunity for students passionate about environmental conservation and community development. By providing financial support, SANParks helps aspiring students achieve their educational goals and contribute to preserving South Africa’s natural heritage. Apply today and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in environmental science, social science, or tourism.