The Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA) offers a bursary opportunity for the 2025 academic year, aimed at unemployed South African students interested in fields that support local government priorities. This bursary enables students to pursue studies that enhance the quality of local government services, contributing to improved public service delivery in South Africa.

Application Period

Applications are open from 3 November 2024 to 30 November 2024. Here’s a comprehensive guide on eligibility, application steps, and important information for securing this bursary.

Eligibility Requirements

1. Nationality and Residency: Open to South African citizens and permanent residents.
2. Institution Type: Applicants must attend a university, university of technology, or TVET college (NATED programs). Grade 12 learners with admission to these institutions are also eligible.
3. Relevant Fields of Study: Applicants must pursue qualifications aligned with local government needs, focusing on critical areas within the sector.
4. Full-Time Study: Only full-time students are eligible.
5. Priority Alignment: LGSETA prioritizes programs relevant to local government, such as service delivery, local government functions, and other areas identified by the authority.

A complete list of qualifications funded by LGSETA can be found on their website at www.lgseta.org.za.

Available Bursaries

For the 2024/2025 financial year, LGSETA will fund 650 bursaries for Grade 12 learners, TVET students, and university students whose studies align with local government needs.

How to Apply for the LGSETA Bursary

1. Visit the LGSETA Website: Go to www.lgseta.org.za.
2. Access the Application Portal:

• Click on the “Services” tab.
• Choose “DG Bursary” under the “Learners” tab.
• Select the 2024-2025 application link.

1. Fill Out the Form: Complete the online form with accurate information.
2. Upload Supporting Documents: Ensure all required documents, like your ID, academic records, and proof of registration, are scanned and ready.
3. Submit the Application: Submit the form with all documents before the deadline.

Important Submission Guidelines

• Application Method: All applications must be submitted online through Microsoft Forms; email or in-person submissions are not accepted.
• Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 11:59 pm on 30 November 2024. Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
• Qualification List: Confirm that your study area is eligible for funding by reviewing the LGSETA qualification list on their website.

After You Apply

• Review Process: Applications are reviewed by LGSETA’s Accounting Authority based on funding availability and adherence to criteria.
• Decision Notification: Successful applicants will be notified. If you do not receive a response within three months of the application deadline, consider the application unsuccessful.
• Funding Not Guaranteed: LGSETA may adjust the number of bursaries based on available resources and reserves the right to cancel the bursary window if necessary.

Focus Areas for Funding

LGSETA funds courses that address the following areas to directly improve South African local government:

• Service delivery
• Municipal finance and budgeting
• Public administration
• Community planning and development
• Environmental management
• Infrastructure maintenance
• Human resources for local government

These priority areas are chosen to equip students with essential skills that support the functioning of local government.

Documents to Prepare for Application

To streamline your application, have these documents ready for upload:

• South African ID or proof of permanent residency
• Academic transcripts or Grade 12 results
• Proof of acceptance into a qualifying institution
• Proof of registration (if applicable)
• Additional documents as specified on the LGSETA website

Key Reminders

• Approval Requirement: Meeting eligibility does not guarantee funding, as applications must undergo review and approval.
• Program Cancellation: LGSETA reserves the right to cancel or modify the bursary program.
• Email Notifications: Successful applicants will receive confirmation within three months of submission.
• Further Inquiries: For questions, contact the Bursary Department at bursaryapp@lgseta.org.za.

Why Apply for LGSETA’s Bursary?

• Financial Support: This bursary reduces the financial burden of tuition and other academic expenses.
• Career Growth: By studying fields relevant to local government, recipients improve their employment prospects in municipal and public administration.
• Community Impact: Qualified graduates contribute directly to improving public services and community development across South Africa.

The LGSETA bursary supports South Africa’s educational growth, creating pathways for employment in the local government sector and fostering sustainable service delivery improvements. For further information, refer to the LGSETA website and ensure timely submission.