CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary 2026

The Construction Education & Training Authority (CETA) honours the legacy of Thapelo Madibeng by offering a bursary programme that supports students pursuing careers in the built environment. As the 2026 academic year approaches, learners at universities like the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban University of Technology (DUT), Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) and various TVET colleges in KwaZulu-Natal have an opportunity to secure funding for their studies. This bursary is designed to address skills shortages in construction, engineering and related fields, ensuring that talented students from KwaZulu-Natal can complete their studies without financial burden.

• Bursary Name: CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary
• Provider: Construction Education & Training Authority (CETA)
• Fields of Study: Civil Engineering, Building Science, Construction Project Management, Quantity Surveying, Architectural Technology, Land Surveying, Real Estate, Construction Management and other built environment disciplines
• Study Level: Nated Level 3 to postgraduate (National Diploma, BTech, BSc, BEng, BSc Hons, Master’s)
• Who Can Apply: South African citizens studying or accepted at universities or TVET colleges in built environment fields
• Closing Date: 30 January 2026
• Funding Covered: Tuition fees, registration, textbooks, accommodation, travel and a stipend (subject to available funding)

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is perfect for students aiming for careers in civil engineering, building science and related built environment professions. It caters to those studying at KZN universities such as UKZN, DUT, MUT, UNIZULU, as well as students at accredited TVET colleges in the province. Whether you are pursuing a National Diploma, BTech, BSc, BEng, honours or master’s degree, as long as your course fits within the construction sector, you should consider applying.

Eligibility Criteria

• Be a South African citizen
• Currently enrolled or accepted to study full-time in a built environment field at a public university, university of technology or TVET college
• Demonstrate financial need and come from a historically disadvantaged background
• Have obtained an average mark of at least 60% in previous studies
• Be 35 years of age or younger at the start of the 2026 academic year
• Not be receiving any other major bursary or scholarship

Fields of Study Covered

• Engineering & Construction: Civil Engineering, Building Science, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Construction Project Management
• Architecture & Surveying: Architectural Technology, Land Surveying, Urban and Regional Planning
• Property & Real Estate: Real Estate, Property Development and related disciplines

• Collect certified copies of your ID, Matric certificate and latest academic transcripts.
• Obtain proof of acceptance or registration at your university or TVET college in a built environment field.
• Prepare proof of household income or an affidavit if your parents/guardians are unemployed.
• Write a motivational letter outlining your career goals and why you require the bursary.
• Download and complete the official CETA Thapelo Madibeng bursary application form.
• Submit the completed form along with all supporting documents to CETA by the closing date.

Important Dates

• Opening Date:  January 2026
• Closing Date: 30 January 2026 – Apply early to avoid missing out.

FAQs

• Can TVET students apply? Yes. Students enrolled at accredited TVET colleges in construction-related programmes are eligible.
• Is NSFAS allowed with this bursary? No. Applicants should not be receiving another full bursary or NSFAS funding to remain eligible.
• What documents are required? Certified ID, Matric results, academic transcripts, proof of registration, proof of income and a motivational letter.
• What happens after applying? Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or further assessment. Successful applicants will sign a bursary agreement and receive funding for the 2026 academic year.

How to Apply for the CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary ?

Applications must be submitted online at: CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Application 2026

You may also be interested in other 2026 bursaries for KZN students listed on KZN Uni Updates.