SNParks Bursary 2026 for Park Community Youth

If you live near a South African National Park and plan to study environmental, tourism, or social sciences in 2026, the SANParks Bursary Programme 2026 is an opportunity designed for you. This initiative aims to uplift motivated students from park-adjacent communities through financial support and mentoring.

About SANParks

South African National Parks (SANParks) manages the country’s national parks under the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act. Part of its mandate is to foster socio-economic development among neighbouring communities through educational support and conservation-led initiatives.

Who Can Apply

To be eligible for this bursary, applicants must:

• Be a South African citizen, aged between 18 and 35
• Reside in a community adjacent to any SANParks-managed national park
• Be entering full-time post-matric studies in 2026, at a public university or TVET college
• If currently enrolled, have achieved a 100% pass rate in completed courses at SANParks

Priority may be given to applicants who identify as women, persons with disabilities, or members of designated groups.

Supported Fields of Study

SANParks supports a range of disciplines that align with its mission of conservation and community development, including:

• Environmental Sciences (e.g., Nature Conservation, Environmental Management, Green Energy, Game Ranch Management)
• Tourism & Hospitality Studies (e.g., Tour Guiding, Events Management, Resort Management)
• Social Sciences (e.g., Community Development, Economic or Socio‑Economic Development Studies, SANParks

What the Bursary Covers

This is a comprehensive bursary offering support for full-time undergraduate diploma or degree studies at accredited public institutions in South Africa. Benefits typically include:

• Tuition fees
• Possibly allowances for books, fieldwork, or living expenses, depending on allocation

SANParks uses funding from tourism levies to support this scheme, ensuring that communities benefit directly from conservation and tourism activities.

Documents Required

Applicants must submit certified copies of:

• Identity document (South African)
• Academic record or latest results
• Motivation letter explaining why you deserve the bursary and your field of study
• Updated CV
• Proof of residence adjacent to a national park
• Acceptance letter from an accredited university or TVET, or proof of application
• If applicable, an affidavit confirming household income below the social grant threshold

How to Apply

Completed applications and all required documentation must be submitted via the official SANParks bursary application process. Only applicants who meet the criteria will be contacted for further assessment or interviews.

For enquiries, applicants can contact SANParks’ bursary administration via the provided email or phone numbers.

Application Deadline

The closing date for the SANParks Bursary Programme 2026 is 18 August 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted.

Final Thoughts

The SANParks Bursary Programme is more than financial aid; it’s a strategic tool for environmental stewardship and community transformation. If you are passionate about conservation, tourism, or community development and reside near a national park, this bursary could be your gateway to academic excellence and meaningful impact.