Meta Description: The Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA) is now accepting applications for its 2026 bursary programme. Here’s a full breakdown of who qualifies, what fields are funded, and how to apply before 28 November 2025.
LGSETA 2026 Bursary Programme: Building South Africa’s Future Local Government Leaders
The Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA) has officially opened its Bursary Funding Window for the 2026 academic year, offering full-time students the opportunity to receive financial support for studies aligned with the skills priorities of the local government sector.
This initiative is part of LGSETA’s national commitment to develop talent that can strengthen municipal governance, improve public service delivery, and enhance technical capacity in towns and cities across South Africa.
Programme Snapshot
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding Organisation | Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA) |
| Opportunity | Bursary Fund for the 2026 Academic Year |
| Who Can Apply | Unemployed South African youth and permanent residents pursuing studies in local government-related fields |
| Study Levels | University, University of Technology, TVET College, and accepted Grade 12 learners |
| Application Opening | 10 November 2025 |
| Closing Date | 28 November 2025 (23:59) |
| Application Method | Online only |
| Funded Programmes | Qualifications approved by LGSETA only |
About LGSETA
The Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA) operates under the Skills Development Act and plays a vital role in building skills and capabilities in the local government sector.
Its mission extends beyond funding education — it’s about empowering youth, supporting municipalities, and driving transformation through education and skills development. LGSETA collaborates with training institutions, universities, and local government entities to close critical skills gaps and foster professional excellence in public service.
Key focus areas include:
- Developing technical and leadership capacity within municipalities.
- Supporting programmes that improve governance and service delivery.
- Building youth employability pipelines in local government occupations.
- Funding innovative learning pathways that address local government challenges.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for the LGSETA 2026 Bursary?
To qualify for consideration, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Basic Eligibility
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Be unemployed and studying full-time in 2026.
Academic Eligibility
- Be registered or provisionally accepted at one of the following institutions:
- A university or university of technology, or
- A TVET College.
- Grade 12 learners who have already received acceptance into these institutions may also apply.
Programme Eligibility
Applicants must be enrolled in or accepted for a qualification relevant to local government — only programmes approved by LGSETA will receive funding.
LGSETA-Approved Fields of Study
LGSETA bursaries focus on fields that improve the capacity and effectiveness of municipalities. Approved study areas include:
Useful Links:
- Learnerships Programme
- Online courses
- Funding Bursaries
- Internships Programme
- Youth Opportunities
- Learning Programmes 2026
- Public Administration and Management
- Public Accountability
- Supply Chain and Logistics Management
- Financial Management / Accounting
- Civil Engineering (including water, transport, and construction)
- Electrical Engineering
- Information Technology / Computer Science
- Town and Regional Planning / Urban Design
- Environmental Management / Disaster Management
- National Certificate (Vocational) (NCV) Programmes in:
- Business Studies
- Engineering
- IT
- Agriculture
- Hospitality and Tourism
These disciplines directly support the skills LGSETA has identified as critical for South Africa’s local government transformation.
How to Apply for the LGSETA 2026 Bursary
Applications are submitted online only — no email or manual submissions will be accepted. Follow the steps below:
Step 1: Visit the LGSETA Portal
Go to www.lgseta.org.za
Then:
- Click “Services”
- Select “DG Bursary” under the Learners section
- Locate the 2025–2026 bursary link and follow instructions, or
- Visit pulse.lgseta.org.za to apply directly
Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form
Fill in your personal, academic, and contact details accurately. Ensure that all fields marked as required are completed before submission.
Step 3: Upload Certified Documents
You will need to attach:
- A certified copy of your ID (not older than 6 months)
- Matric Certificate / Latest results (certified)
- Proof of acceptance or registration at a recognised institution
- Proof of income for parents/guardians or a supporting affidavit
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
- Ensure your application is submitted before 28 November 2025, 23:59.
- Late or incomplete applications will be automatically disqualified.
Important Notes from LGSETA
- Bursary funding is subject to availability of funds and eligibility compliance.
- LGSETA reserves the right to withdraw or amend the bursary call at any time.
- If you do not receive feedback within three months of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
- For all enquiries, contact:
bursaryapp@lgseta.org.za
011 456 8579
Why the LGSETA Bursary Matters
This programme isn’t just about education — it’s about shaping the next generation of public service leaders. The LGSETA bursary empowers young South Africans to:
- Access higher education in critical fields.
- Reduce financial barriers to completing their studies.
- Develop skills directly aligned with the needs of local government.
- Contribute to South Africa’s long-term goals of better governance and sustainable communities.
Bursary recipients benefit from comprehensive financial support that may cover:
- Tuition fees,
- Prescribed learning materials, and
- Accommodation or transport, depending on the funding policy.
Moreover, graduates who complete their studies often transition into municipal positions, public sector internships, or leadership roles within service delivery programmes.
Final Thoughts
The LGSETA 2026 Bursary Fund Grant Programme is a targeted opportunity for ambitious, socially-driven students who want to play a role in building South Africa’s future. By investing in youth education, LGSETA strengthens the foundation of efficient, ethical, and innovative local governance.
If your career aspirations lie in public administration, engineering, or community development, this is your moment to step forward.
Apply online before 28 November 2025 at pulse.lgseta.org.za.
Source: Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA) — Official 2026 Bursary Fund Announcement.
