The Motsepe Foundation is at the forefront of creating educational opportunities for South African students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through its bursary program, the foundation strives to contribute to the sustainable development of Africa by supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). If you’re a South African student passionate about pursuing studies in STEM or related fields, the Motsepe Foundation Bursary may be the perfect opportunity for you.

What is the Motsepe Foundation Bursary?

The Motsepe Foundation offers bursaries to South African students who come from financially disadvantaged communities but show exceptional promise in their academic endeavors. The foundation focuses on students pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM), including specialized fields like Agriculture, Arts, Business Studies, Engineering, Information Technology, Mathematics, Science, and Medical Studies.

This bursary program provides comprehensive financial support, including:

• Tuition Fees: Full coverage for the cost of tuition at accredited higher education institutions.
• Accommodation: Funding for on-campus or off-campus accommodation.
• Stipend: An allowance to cover essential study materials, including textbooks.

In addition to the financial assistance, the Motsepe Foundation offers mentorship and networking opportunities, ensuring that bursary recipients receive the guidance and connections they need to succeed in their chosen fields.

Areas of Focus for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary

The Motsepe Foundation aligns its work with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include goals such as No Poverty, Good Health and Well-being, Quality Education, and Decent Work and Economic Growth. These objectives guide the foundation’s commitment to supporting the development of human capital in South Africa and beyond.

The foundation emphasizes a holistic approach to education that includes:

• STEAM Scholarships: Focusing on the rapidly expanding sectors of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, the Motsepe Foundation recognizes that the future of work is closely tied to these fields. While STEM fields receive significant attention, the foundation also values the importance of the arts in fostering creativity and innovation, essential for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
• Martha Rose Scholarship: In tribute to Dr Moloi-Motsepe’s late mother, a dedicated nurse, this scholarship supports promising students pursuing degrees in Nursing and Psychology. The Martha Rose Scholarship honors the human aspect of healthcare, acknowledging the irreplaceable value of empathy and service in the healing process.

Who is Eligible for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary?

To be considered for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• South African Citizenship: Applicants must be South African nationals.
• Financial Need: The bursary is intended for students who demonstrate a clear financial need.
• Academic Performance: Applicants must have achieved a minimum average of 70% in Matric (excluding Life Orientation).
• Enrollment: Students must be enrolled in, or intend to enroll in, one of the designated fields of study related to STEAM disciplines.
• Exceptional Academic Record: Demonstrating consistent academic excellence is a key requirement.

Meeting these criteria is the first step in the application process and ensures that the bursary program reaches students with the greatest potential to contribute to South Africa’s development.