For young people interested in solving real-world problems, engineering offers a rewarding and impactful career. South Africa, with its development challenges and ambitions, needs a new generation of skilled engineers to help build a better future. In this article, we’ll explore the scope of engineering, its various subfields, and the bursaries available to help you study engineering without financial stress.

What Is Engineering?

Engineering is the application of science and mathematics to solve practical problems and create useful products, systems, or structures. Engineers combine technical knowledge with creativity to improve lives, whether it’s through building infrastructure, designing machines, or coding complex programs.

In South Africa, engineers play a vital role in industries like mining, telecommunications, transport, agriculture, and construction. They are also at the forefront of solving problems related to energy, water supply, and urban development.

Major Fields and Subcategories in Engineering

Engineering is a vast field, divided into multiple disciplines. Each has its own focus area and impact. Here are the main types of engineering and what they involve:

Civil Engineering

This field deals with the design and construction of infrastructure like roads, bridges, dams, buildings, and water systems. Civil engineers help create safe and sustainable communities.

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineers design, build, and maintain machines and mechanical systems. This includes engines, manufacturing tools, vehicles, and HVAC systems.

Electrical Engineering

This area focuses on electricity, electronics, and power systems. Electrical engineers work on everything from power grids and renewable energy to telecommunication systems and circuits.

Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineers turn raw materials into useful products through chemical processes. They work in sectors like food, fuel, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing.

Industrial Engineering

This discipline focuses on optimizing systems and processes in manufacturing and business. Industrial engineers aim to make production faster, safer, and more efficient.

Software and Computer Engineering

This growing field combines engineering principles with computer science. It includes designing software systems, developing apps, and building networks.

Mining Engineering

Mining engineers design and manage the extraction of minerals and resources from the earth. In South Africa, this field is especially important due to the country’s rich mining industry.

Environmental Engineering

These engineers focus on protecting the environment through sustainable design and systems. They work on water treatment, waste management, and air pollution control.

Why Engineering Matters in South Africa

South Africa faces many developmental challenges: energy shortages, poor infrastructure, water scarcity, and high unemployment. Engineering is one of the key tools to tackle these problems and build solutions.

Infrastructure Development

Engineers design roads, transport systems, and buildings that connect communities and support economic growth.

Innovation and Technology

Through research and new technologies, engineers improve industries, reduce costs, and create opportunities for entrepreneurship and jobs.

Environmental Sustainability

With climate change on the rise, engineers play a role in creating greener cities, clean energy solutions, and better waste systems.

Popular Engineering Bursaries in South Africa

Engineering qualifications can be costly, but many bursary providers are ready to invest in talented young people. Here are some of the most trusted engineering bursaries in South Africa:

Transnet Bursary Programme

Transnet offers full bursaries to students pursuing mechanical, civil, electrical, and industrial engineering. The bursary includes tuition, accommodation, books, and vacation work.

Eskom Bursary Scheme

As South Africa’s largest energy provider, Eskom supports students in electrical, mechanical, civil, and chemical engineering. Students may be placed in Eskom facilities after graduation.

Sasol Bursary Programme

Sasol offers bursaries to students studying chemical, mechanical, electrical, mining, and industrial engineering. The bursary covers full study costs and includes mentoring and work opportunities.

Aurecon (now Zutari) Bursary

This engineering and infrastructure firm funds students in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering. Their bursary includes vacation work and potential full-time employment.

Anglo American Bursary

Anglo American supports mining, electrical, mechanical, and chemical engineering students. Bursars often gain practical experience at mining operations.

Denel Bursary

Denel, a state-owned aerospace and defense company, offers bursaries to students in aeronautical, electrical, and mechanical engineering. The bursary includes study funding and work-back obligations.

Murray & Roberts Bursary

This company offers support to students in civil, mechanical, industrial, and mining engineering. Academic merit and financial need are considered.

Department of Water and Sanitation Bursary

This government department offers bursaries in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, focusing on improving water infrastructure and access in South Africa.

National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)

NSFAS supports financially needy students at public universities and TVET colleges. Engineering students can access full tuition, accommodation, and study material through this fund.

Conclusion

Engineering is more than a profession — it’s a mission to improve how we live, move, and connect. In South Africa, engineers are building tomorrow’s economy, helping us transition to clean energy, smarter cities, and inclusive infrastructure.

If you're passionate about solving real problems with real solutions, engineering is a powerful path. With the right bursary, your journey can begin without the financial burden. Explore your options, apply early, and commit to excellence — because South Africa needs engineers who can lead with knowledge, innovation, and integrity.

Browse our updated list ofEngineering Bursariesto start your application journey today.