The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, abbreviated as KZN COGTA, works towards enhancing local governance structure with the aim of strengthening service delivery to communities. In this regard, it often works with municipalities, royal leaders as well as civil society and private sector players towards enhancing developments in terms of governance. Through its bursary prograaaamme, KZN COGTA invests in young people who are eager to make meaningful contributions to the betterment of the community.
The KZN COGTA Bursary Programme for 2026 is intended for needy but academically qualified students from the province who desire to study coures focusing on the work of the department and the government, building infrastructure for communities and community-oriented careers.
Fields of Study Covered
Bursaries are awarded for National Diploma or Bachelor's Degree studies in the following fields:
- Anthropology
- Auditing
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Science
- Disaster Management
- Electrical Engineering
- Geographic Information System (GIS), Cartography, Geography, Remote Sensing
- Information Technology
- Land Surveying
- Law
- Quantity Surveying
- Risk Management
- Supply Chain Management
- Urban and Regional Planning
- Property Valuation
Selection Criteria
- Selection is based on academic merit, financial need and alignment with departmental priorities.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 4 months after the closing date.
- Successful applicants will be required to sign a bursary agreement.
- Beneficiaries must complete a 2-year internship programme with the department after graduation.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must reside in KwaZulu-Natal
- Must be between 18 and 35 years old
- Must have completed Matric
- Must be studying or intending to study full-time towards a National Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in one of the listed fields
- Must be accepted or provisionally accepted at a public tertiary institution (preference given to institutions within KZN)
- Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply
How to Apply
Applicants must download and complete the official application form: KZN COGTA Bursary Application Form 2026
Applications must be submitted either by post or hand delivery.
Postal ddress:
The Bursary Unit
Human Capital Development
Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs
Private Bag X9078
Pietermaritzburg
3200
Hand Delivery Address
Natalia Building
330 Langalibalele Street
Pietermaritzburg
3201
Required Documents
Applicants must include certifid copies of the following documents:
- South African ID document
- Matric certificate
- Full academic record (if already studying)
- Proof of non-acceptance from KZN institutions (if studying outside the province)
- Academic curriculum (qualification structure)
- Tuition fee structure from institution
- Parents' or guardians' income and expenditure statement
- Proof of household income (payslips or affidavit if unemployed)
- Proof of residence
- Motivational letter explaining your background and why you deserve the bursary
Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Closing Date
31 January 2026
Late applications will not be considered.
Contact Details
For questions, contact KZN COGTA directly:
- Ms J. Mchunu: 033 260 8267
- Ms V. Govender: 033 260 8268
Disclaimer
This bursary article is intended for informational purposes only. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, applicants are strongly advised to confirm all details directly with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (KZN COGTA) through their official contact channels or website, as requirements, benefits and deadlines may change without notice.
BurzarsNet wishes you luck with your application. All the best!