Kathu Solar Park Bursary Empowers Northern Cape Youth

The Kathu Solar Park Bursary, managed in partnership with StudyTrust, addresses barriers to higher education by supporting academically strong and financially needy students from the John Taolo Gaetsewe district, including Kathu, Kuruman and surrounding areas. This initiative enables local youth to pursue full‑time tertiary studies at accredited institutions across South Africa, strengthening both individual futures and regional development.

By offering comprehensive financial assistance and mentorship, the bursary empowers students from disadvantaged backgrounds to access university education and build careers across diverse academic disciplines, contributing meaningfully to community and economic growth.

Fields of Study Supported

Eligible study areas cover any discipline that students wish to pursue. Applicants may enrol in programmes ranging from arts and humanities to science, technology, engineering, mathematics, business, law, health sciences, or education. The bursary places no restrictions on fields of study, allowing full‑time students to follow their chosen academic path at recognised public or accredited private institutions.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be South African citizens who reside in the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality, particularly in Kathu. They may currently be in Matric or have already completed Matric. Full‑time study is a requirement; part‑time or correspondence courses are not eligible.

Students applying must either have final Matric results or current tertiary records demonstrating strong academic achievement. Financial need must be clearly shown, with combined household income not exceeding six hundred thousand rand before tax per annum. Preference will be given to candidates with the greatest need when academic results are comparable. Failure to meet all criteria results in disqualification.

What the Bursary Covers

Each successful recipient receives funding tailored to their individual financial needs. The bursary may cover tuition fees, registration, and examination charges. It may also provide support for accommodation in university residences or equivalent, meals, and learning materials such as textbooks and stationery. Recipients may receive a laptop or data support according to their circumstances and available funds.

Selection and Assessment

Selection is based primarily on academic excellence and demonstrated financial need. For school‑leavers, strong Grade 12 final or mid–year results are considered. Current tertiary students are assessed using their latest academic records. Only applicants with a combined household income below the specified threshold qualify. If multiple candidates have similar academic records, preference is given to those with greater financial hardship.

StudyTrust oversees the application process and conducts reviews based on the available budget for the year. All decisions are final, and there is no appeal process once selection is concluded.

Obligations for Successful Recipients

Bursary recipients must maintain full‑time enrolment and satisfactory academic performance throughout the year. Should a student withdraw or fail without approved reasons, the bursary may need to be repaid to the fund. Funds are disbursed directly to the institution, which deducts tuition fees and then passes any remaining support to the student for living or study costs.

Recipients are expected to remain in contact with programme administrators and notify them of any additional bursaries or financial aid received during the funding period, as this may affect the award.

How to Apply

Application for the Kathu Solar Park Bursary must be completed through the StudyTrust online platform. Applicants must upload certified documents including a South African ID, proof of residential address within the JTG district, Grade 12 results or latest tertiary transcript, and proof of acceptance or registration at an accredited institution.

Household income must be documented via payslips or affidavits if parents or guardians are unemployed. Missing documents or an incomplete application may lead to disqualification.

Timeline and Deadlines

Applications open on May 1st and close on October 31, 2025. Submissions after this date will not be accepted. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly. If no communication is received by the notification period, the application should be considered unsuccessful. Postgraduate bursaries are currently included in the same deadline and process for all eligible students.

Final Thoughts

The Kathu Solar Park Bursary represents a transformative opportunity for young people in Kathu and the wider JTG region. By removing financial barriers and offering tailored support across academic and living needs, the programme enables students to focus fully on their education. It nurtures potential, strengthens local communities, and supports South Africa’s goal of inclusive access to tertiary education. If you are a full‑time student from Kathu or nearby areas, eager to pursue higher education in any field, this bursary could help launch your journey.