The National Department of Tourism (NDT) is offering external bursary opportunities for the 2026 academic year to support South African students pursuing studies in fields that contribute to the development and sustainability of the tourism sector and related industries. The bursary programme forms part of the department’s broader commitment to building skills, strengthening institutional capacity, and promoting economic growth through education and professional development. The initiative targets students who are enrolled in or planning to pursue qualifications at recognised higher education institutions. Eligible qualifications include Diploma, Degree, Honours, Master’s, MTech, and PhD programmes. By investing in students across various disciplines, the Department aims to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of advancing tourism, governance, and economic development in South Africa. Purpose of the Bursary Programme The bursary programme is designed to support talented students who demonstrate academic potential but may require financial assistance to complete their studies. Through this initiative, the Department of Tourism seeks to encourage the development of critical skills required to strengthen the tourism sector and related areas within the public and private sectors. Key objectives of the programme include: Supporting academic development in fields that contribute to tourism and national development Building a pipeline of skilled professionals for the tourism and public sectors Promoting access to higher education opportunities Strengthening research, innovation, and strategic planning capabilities within the industry Students who receive the bursary will gain the opportunity to complete their studies while contributing to the long-term goals of the tourism sector in South Africa. Fields of Study Supported The Department of Tourism bursary programme supports a wide range of study fields that are essential to the functioning and advancement of the tourism industry and broader government operations. Applicants must be studying or intending to study in one of the approved disciplines listed below: Tourism Management Accounting / Financial Accounting / Management Accounting Bachelor of Law Business Analytics Communications / Communication Science / Communication Design / Graphic Design / Strategic Communication Computer Science / Information Technology / Software Development Construction Management Data Sciences / Data Analytics Development Studies Digital Transformation Economics Facility Management / Property Management and Development Forensic Auditing / Internal Auditing / Information Systems Auditing Humanities (Social Sciences) Information and Knowledge Management Industrial / Organisational Psychology Management Services / Operations Management / Work-Study / Organisational Development Monitoring and Evaluation Public Administration / Business Administration Risk Management Statistics Supply Chain Management These fields reflect the interdisciplinary nature of tourism development, highlighting the importance of expertise in governance, management, technology, analytics, communication, and infrastructure. Duration of the Bursary The bursary will be awarded for the remaining duration of the approved academic programme. Funding will be renewed on an annual basis, subject to the recipient maintaining satisfactory academic performance throughout the period of study. Successful candidates will be required to enter into a formal contractual agreement with the Department of Tourism. This agreement outlines the responsibilities and expectations associated with receiving the bursary, including maintaining academic standards and complying with programme requirements. Application Process Applicants are required to complete the official bursary application form and submit it through one of the approved submission channels. Application forms can be obtained from the Department of Tourism’s official website or collected at the department’s reception area. Completed application forms may be submitted using the following methods: Hand Delivery: Tourism House, 17 Trevenna Street, Sunnyside, Pretoria, 0002 Postal Submission: Tourism House, Private Bag X 424, Pretoria, 0001 Email Submission: Bursary2026@tourism.gov.za Applicants are encouraged to ensure that all required information and supporting documentation are included when submitting their applications to avoid delays or disqualification. Application Deadline All bursary applications for the 2026 academic year must be submitted before the official closing date. Closing Date: 20 March 2026 Late or incomplete applications may not be considered. Prospective applicants are therefore advised to submit their documentation well before the deadline. Additional Information and Enquiries Due to the expected volume of applications, the Department of Tourism will only correspond with successful applicants. Candidates who do not receive communication after the selection process should consider their applications unsuccessful. For further information or clarification regarding the bursary programme, applicants may contact the following officials: Mr Gregory Moroke: 012 444 6166 Ms Marjorie Sibiya: 012 444 6174 These contacts can provide guidance on the application process, eligibility requirements, and any additional information related to the bursary programme. Supporting Skills Development in Tourism The National Department of Tourism continues to prioritise education and professional development as key drivers of sector growth. By supporting students across a variety of disciplines, the department aims to strengthen South Africa’s tourism ecosystem while empowering the next generation of professionals, researchers, and industry leaders. This bursary programme represents an important opportunity for students who are committed to academic excellence and who wish to contribute to the advancement of tourism and national development in South Africa. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the Bursaries. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.