Umthombo Youth Development Foundation 2026 Bursary South Africa

The Umthombo Youth Development Foundation is a South African organisation that has been working for many years to assist rural students in pursuing health-related careers. Umthombo Youth Development Foundation enables young people from under-resourced communities to become qualified health professionals through financial support, mentorship and practical exposure. In this way, the organization empowers not only individual students but also contributes to strengthening healthcare delivery in rural districts across KwaZulu-Natal.

Fields Covered

UYDF invites students to apply for the 2026 bursary programme. Learners who are already funded by NSFAS but need additional funding to cover other costs may apply.

Learners within the Umkhanyakude, Zululand and King Cetshwayo Districts are invited to apply for studies in the following Health Science fields:

• Audiology
• Dentistry
• Dental Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Physiotherapy
• Radiography (Ultrasonography)
• Speech and Language Therapy

This bursary is ideal for rural students committed to pursuing healthcare careers and serving their communities.

What the Bursary covers

Successful applicants will receive a range of academic and personal development support, including:

• Additional funding to complement NSFAS allowance and cover outstanding needs.
• Continuous academic and emotional mentoring throughout the year.
• Practical learning opportunities at rural hospitals, offering real-world healthcare experience.
• Access to life-skills workshops to help students develop confidence, resilence and professionalism.

Shortlisted students will attend an online ZOOM interview between January and February 2026.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, students must meet the following criteria (all conditions must be met):

• Must come from one of the following districts in KwaZulu-Natal: Umkhanyakude, Zululand, or King Cetshwayo, including the hospital catchment areas such as Bethesda, Hlabisa, Manguzi, Mosvold, Mseleni, Benedictine, Ceza, Itshelejuba, Nkonjei, Vryheid, Catherine Booth, Ekombe, KwaMagwaza, Mbongolwane and Nkandla.
• Must currently be in Matric or must have completed school at a Quintile 1-3 rural no-fee school.
• Must be persuing or planning to pursue one of the approved Health Science qualifications.
• Must have been accepted to study at a public university in South Africa (UNISA excluded)
• Must be entering 1st or 2nd year of a first degree in 2026.
• Must have NSFAS funding or proof of NSFAS application for 2026.
• Must be willing to work at one of the listed hospitals for two years after graduating.
• Preference will be given to recent matriculants.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online: UYDF Bursary Application Form 2026

Required Documents

Submit the following documents (clear and certified where necessary)

• Certified copy of ID or passport.
• June Matric results or final Matric certificate.
• Full academic record and a letter from your department confirming your academic year (if already studying).
• Proof of application or acceptance to a university.
• Latest university fee statement (if applicable).
• NSFAS confirmation or proof of application.

Applications missing documents may be disqualified.

Closing Date

31 December 2025

Late applications will not be considered.

Contact Details

• Contact person: Cebile Zungu
• Tel: 031 765 5774
• Email: Cebile@umthomboyouth.org.za 
• (office hours only)

From BurzarsNet

If you come from a small community, remember this: your dream doesn't have to stay small. Opportunities like this bursary can turn your passion into a purpose, keep pushing, keep showing up and let your future unfold. We wish you well on your applications and please share with someone who need funding.