National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) Bursary SA

The Department of Cooperative Governance (DCoG), through the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), offers a bursary programme to support South African students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or Master’s qualifications in Disaster Management or Fire Technology/Engineering. The aim is to develop a skilled workforce capable of managing and mitigating disasters effectively.

Fields of Study Covered

The bursary is available for the following qualifications:

• Undergraduate/Postgraduate/Advanced Diploma in Disaster Management or Fire Technology/Engineering
• Master’s Degree in Disaster Management or Fire Technology/Engineering

Note: Certificate courses and PhD qualifications are not eligible for this funding.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be South African citizens
• Have applied, been accepted, or are registered for a full-time programme in Disaster Management or Fire Technology/Engineering at a recognised public higher education institution in South Africa
• Undergraduate/Postgraduate/Advanced Diploma Applicants:
  • Achieve a minimum average of 60% in their most recent academic results
  • Provide proof of application, acceptance, or registration
  • Submit proof of household income (less than R350,000 per annum) or an affidavit if unemployed
• Master’s Applicants:
  • Achieve a minimum average of 65% in their most recent academic results
  • Provide proof of application, acceptance, or registration
  • Submit a 1–2 page concept note of the proposed Master’s research on one of the NDMC’s 16 priority thematic areas
  • Submit proof of household income (less than R350,000 per annum) or an affidavit if unemployed

What the Bursary Covers

The NDMC Bursary Programme provides:

• 100% coverage of tuition fees, including registration
• A research allowance for Master’s students, capped at R11,000

Application Process

To apply:

1. Register an account on the NDMC Bursary Application System.
2. Complete the online application form.
3. Upload the following supporting documents:
   • Certified copy of South African Identity Document
   • Certified copy of Matric Certificate
   • Most recent academic results
   • Proof of application, acceptance, or registration at a recognised public higher education institution
   • Proof of household income or an affidavit if unemployed
   • For Master’s applicants: 1–2 page concept note of proposed research
4. Submit the application before the closing date.

Closing Date: 30 September 2025

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Final Thoughts

The NDMC Bursary Programme offers a valuable opportunity for South African students to pursue studies in Disaster Management or Fire Technology/Engineering. By providing financial support, the programme aims to develop a skilled workforce capable of effectively managing and mitigating disasters in the country.