Company: Thebe Foundation
Location: South Africa
Remuneration: Full coverage of tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, and transport allowance
Closing Date: Friday, 17 October 2025 at 12:00 midday

Introduction
The Thebe Foundation Dr EJ Mabuza Scholarship is a prestigious opportunity for financially needy South African students who wish to pursue full-time higher education. Established in memory of Dr Enos J. Mabuza, this scholarship aims to empower deserving students to complete their studies, build a strong African identity, and acquire the skills needed for professional success.

What is the Dr EJ Mabuza Scholarship?
The scholarship was founded in 2016 to honour Dr Enos J. Mabuza, a co-founder of the Thebe Investment Corporation alongside prominent leaders like Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu. It is part of Thebe Foundation’s broader initiatives to promote education, enterprise, and socio-economic transformation.

What the Scholarship Covers
The scholarship provides full financial support, including:

• Tuition fees
• Accredited textbooks
• Approved accommodation costs
• Meals
• Transport allowance (for students living at home)

Important Notes:

• Historical debt (expenses incurred before 2026) is not covered. Discovery of previous debt may result in cancellation.
• Applicants may need to relinquish other financial aid if awarded this scholarship.

Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet all the following criteria:

• South African citizen under 35 years old
• Unemployed and pursuing a full-time qualification: Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Degree, Honours, or Master’s (PhDs excluded)
• First-time enrolment in their chosen qualification
• Academic record: at least 60% average in the most recent full-year studies
• Household income below R600,000 per year
• Belong to a Black Designated Group under BBBEE (Africans, Coloureds, Indians, Asians)
• Enrolled in or applying to a public tertiary institution registered with DHET and SAQA, including TVET colleges
• Studying or intending to study in approved fields:
  • Accounting, Corporate Finance, Finance
  • Mining Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Agriculture
  • Education (Mathematics and Technology focus)
  • Renewable Energy, Water and Energy, ICT, Media Information and Communication
  • Artisan/TVET programmes: Electricians, Plumbing, Mechanics, Solar Voltaic Service Technicians, Millwright programmes

Role Responsibility
While primarily a scholarship, the program expects scholars to:

• Commit to full-time study in the approved field
• Maintain good academic performance
• Actively participate in Thebe Foundation programs and mentorship opportunities
• Uphold the values of the scholarship in academic and community settings

Skills and Attributes
Successful applicants typically demonstrate:

• Academic excellence and discipline
• Financial need and honesty about household circumstances
• Leadership potential and community involvement
• Passion for their chosen field and commitment to making a difference
• Strong motivation and clear career goals

How to Apply & Required Documentation
Applications must be complete, accurate, and submitted by the deadline:
Required documents include:

• One-page motivation/statement explaining field choice and future plans
• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified copy of parents’/guardian’s ID or death certificate if applicable
• Proof of household income (payslips, SASSA documentation, or affidavit for unemployed parents)
• For high-school applicants: Grade 11 and current Grade 12 Term-2 report with school stamp (Grade 9 final report optional)
• For current university/honours/master’s students: certified matric certificate, current registration proof, and latest transcripts
• Optional: Doctor’s letter for disability, bursary agreements, acceptance letters for 2026
• If under 18: parental/legal guardian consent form and certified proof of guardian identity

All certified documents must be less than three months old at the time of submission.

Key Dates & Application Process

• Closing Date: Friday, 17 October 2025 at 12:00 midday
• Academic Year of Funding: 2026
• Applicants will be notified within three months; unsuccessful applicants should consider their application declined
• Successful applicants sign a formal agreement with Thebe Foundation before fund disbursement
• Applications are submitted via Thebe Foundation / Aura AMS portal

Tips for a Strong Application

• Ensure academic records are up-to-date and accurate
• Write a clear, genuine motivation statement
• Gather all required documents early
• Be truthful about financial circumstances
• Confirm your chosen field of study is listed among the accepted majors

Why This Scholarship Matters
The Dr EJ Mabuza Scholarship not only alleviates financial burdens but also:

• Enables students to earn nationally and internationally recognised qualifications
• Builds pride in African heritage
• Encourages graduates to contribute positively to their communities
• Helps break cycles of economic disadvantage