Fully Funded Letsatsi Borutho Trust Bursary 2027 Now Open for University, TVET and Skills Programme Students
South Africans living near the Droogfontein Solar Power Plant have an exciting opportunity to pursue higher education through the Letsatsi Borutho Trust Bursary 2027. The community-funded bursary programme is now accepting applications from students planning to study at recognised South African universities, universities of technology, public and private TVET colleges, and accredited skills training institutions.
The bursary, administered by StudyTrust, aims to remove financial barriers for deserving students from surrounding communities by covering essential study costs. Whether you are planning to enrol in a degree, diploma, technical qualification or NQF Level 6 skills programme, this bursary could help you achieve your educational goals.
Applications are currently open and will close on 30 September 2026.
News Summary (Key Highlights)
- Applications for the Letsatsi Borutho Trust Bursary 2027 are now open.
- Available to South African citizens living within 50 km of the Droogfontein Solar Power Plant.
- Covers studies at universities, universities of technology, TVET colleges and accredited training providers.
- Supports degrees, diplomas, NQF Level 6 technical qualifications and skills programmes.
- Funding may cover tuition, registration, accommodation, meals and learning materials.
- Managed by StudyTrust.
- Applications close on 30 September 2026.
About the Letsatsi Borutho Trust
The Letsatsi Borutho Trust was established to ensure that communities surrounding the Droogfontein Solar Power Plant benefit directly from the renewable energy project.
The Trust owns shares in the solar power plant and invests the income generated into community development initiatives, with education being one of its primary priorities. Through its bursary programme, the Trust helps students gain qualifications that improve employment opportunities while contributing to the long-term development of local communities.
By supporting access to tertiary education and vocational training, the Trust aims to empower young people to build sustainable careers.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Reside within a 50-kilometre radius of the Droogfontein Solar Power Plant.
- Have been accepted or intend to study at a recognised South African tertiary education or training institution.
- Submit a fully completed application together with all required supporting documents before the closing date.
Applicants who completed their National Senior Certificate (NSC) or National Technical Certificate (NTC) in previous years are also eligible to apply.
Qualifications Supported
The bursary supports a wide range of qualifications, including:
- Bachelor’s Degrees
- National Diplomas
- Higher Certificates
- University of Technology programmes
- Public TVET College qualifications
- Private TVET College qualifications
- NQF Level 6 technical qualifications
- Skills training programmes
- Occupational qualifications
- Trade programmes such as:
- Plumbing
- Bricklaying
- Electrical trades
- Construction-related training
- Other accredited technical programmes
This broad eligibility ensures that students pursuing both academic and vocational careers can benefit from the bursary.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
The value of each bursary is assessed individually based on the student’s needs and study costs.
Funding may include:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Examination fees
- Student accommodation
- Meals
- Prescribed textbooks
- Stationery
- Other approved learning materials
The objective is to ensure students can focus on their studies without unnecessary financial pressure.
Selection Criteria
Successful applicants will be selected based on the following factors:
Academic Performance
Selection will consider:
- Grade 12 preliminary results
- Final NSC results
- Latest tertiary academic results (where applicable)
- Highest grade completed for applicants entering technical or skills training programmes
Applicants should demonstrate the ability to successfully complete their chosen qualification.
Financial Need
Applicants must demonstrate that they do not have sufficient financial resources to fund their studies independently.
Financial circumstances are carefully assessed to ensure assistance reaches students who need it most.
How to Apply
Applications must be completed online through the StudyTrust bursary application platform.
Once the online application has been completed, applicants must submit the required supporting documents.
Supporting documents can be submitted via email to:
Alternatively, documents may be delivered to:
Tlhokomelo Centre
776 Corner of Lecholo and Matanzima Roads
Kimberley
Applicants should ensure that every section of the application form is completed accurately and that all required documents are attached before submission.
Application Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 1 June 2026 |
| Applications Close | 30 September 2026 |
| Studies Commence | 2027 Academic Year |
Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
Why This Bursary Matters
The cost of tertiary education continues to be a major challenge for many South African families. Community-funded initiatives such as the Letsatsi Borutho Trust Bursary help deserving students access quality education while supporting local economic development.
The bursary also recognises the importance of technical and vocational education by funding students pursuing artisan and skills-based careers. These qualifications remain critical for sectors such as renewable energy, construction, engineering, manufacturing and infrastructure development.
Benefits of the Letsatsi Borutho Trust Bursary
Successful applicants will benefit from:
- Reduced financial pressure during their studies.
- Access to recognised tertiary institutions.
- Funding for both academic and vocational qualifications.
- Opportunities to gain skills that are in demand across South Africa.
- Improved prospects for future employment and career growth.
What This Means for Prospective Students
If you live within the eligible communities surrounding the Droogfontein Solar Power Plant, this bursary could make tertiary education more accessible.
Prospective applicants should:
- Apply as early as possible.
- Prepare certified supporting documents.
- Secure admission at a recognised institution.
- Complete the StudyTrust online application carefully.
- Submit all required documentation before the closing date.
Early applications allow sufficient time to resolve any missing documentation before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who administers the Letsatsi Borutho Trust Bursary?
The bursary programme is administered by StudyTrust on behalf of the Letsatsi Borutho Trust.
Who is eligible to apply?
South African citizens residing within a 50-kilometre radius of the Droogfontein Solar Power Plant who meet the academic and admission requirements.
Which institutions qualify?
Recognised public and private universities, universities of technology, TVET colleges and accredited training providers.
Does the bursary fund skills programmes?
Yes. Eligible NQF Level 6 technical qualifications, occupational programmes and accredited skills training programmes are included.
What expenses are covered?
Funding may include tuition, registration, accommodation, meals, textbooks, stationery and examination fees.
When is the closing date?
Applications close on 30 September 2026 for studies commencing in the 2027 academic year.
Key Takeaways
The Letsatsi Borutho Trust Bursary 2027 provides a valuable opportunity for students from communities surrounding the Droogfontein Solar Power Plant to access fully funded tertiary education and vocational training.
By supporting university degrees, TVET qualifications and technical skills programmes, the Trust continues to invest in education, skills development and community empowerment. Eligible students are encouraged to apply early and submit complete applications before the closing date.
Editorial Policy
This article is based on information provided by the Letsatsi Borutho Trust and StudyTrust. Every effort has been made to ensure factual accuracy at the time of publication. The content has been independently written, fact-checked and human-edited in accordance with Google’s E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness and Trustworthiness) principles. Applicants should verify programme requirements and deadlines through the official application platform before submitting their applications.
Sources and References
- Letsatsi Borutho Trust
- StudyTrust
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
- South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
- Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO)
- National Qualifications Framework (NQF)
- Department of Basic Education (DBE)
