Company: Sibona Ilanga Trust in partnership with StudyTrust
Location: Communities within a 50 km radius of De Aar Solar Power Plant, Northern Cape
Remuneration: Full or partial funding based on financial need (tuition, accommodation, meals, and study materials)
Closing Date: 31 October 2025

Introduction
Education is one of the strongest tools for unlocking human potential, but for many South African students, the dream of higher learning remains out of reach due to financial limitations. The Sibona Ilanga Trust Bursary Programme seeks to bridge this gap by supporting deserving students from communities near the De Aar Solar Power Plant. This initiative, managed by StudyTrust, provides not only financial aid but also mentorship and academic support, ensuring that young people can thrive in their chosen fields of study.

What is Sibona Ilanga Trust Bursary Programme?
The Sibona Ilanga Trust was established to empower communities around the De Aar Solar Power Plant by promoting access to education. The bursary programme is open to qualifying students living within a 50 km radius of De Aar and aims to cover costs related to tertiary education. With StudyTrust as the implementing partner, recipients also benefit from structured support and guidance, making the bursary more than just financial assistance—it is a holistic development opportunity.

Minimum Requirements:
Applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must reside within 50 km of the De Aar Solar Power Plant
• Must be accepted or registered at a recognised South African tertiary institution, including:
  • Universities
  • Universities of Technology
  • Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges
• May include students who previously completed their NSC or NTC
• Must provide a completed application form with all supporting documentation
• Must demonstrate financial need

Role Responsibility:
Recipients of the bursary are expected to:

• Commit fully to their studies and achieve satisfactory academic progress
• Represent the Sibona Ilanga Trust positively within their communities
• Use the opportunity to contribute back to their community once qualified
• Submit progress reports and proof of registration as required by StudyTrust

Skills and Attributes:
Ideal candidates should demonstrate:

• Strong academic ability in previous studies
• A commitment to personal development and lifelong learning
• Motivation to uplift their community through education
• Resilience and determination in pursuing their academic and career goals
• Financial need as a primary barrier to education

What Does the Bursary Cover?
The Sibona Ilanga Trust Bursary may cover:

• Tuition, registration, and examination fees
• Accommodation in approved residences or equivalent housing
• Meals and living allowances
• Prescribed learning materials (e.g., textbooks and stationery)

How to Apply

• Complete the online application through the StudyTrust platform
• Alternatively, submit hard copy applications to:
  • Ethembeni Community Centre, 3 Friedlander Street, De Aar
  • Or via email: b.ndlovu@studytrust.org.za
• Ensure that all supporting documents are attached, including proof of residence, certified ID, and academic results
• Applications must be submitted between 1 May and 31 October

Why This Matters
The Sibona Ilanga Trust Bursary Programme is more than just financial support—it is an investment in the future of the De Aar community. By reducing barriers to higher education, it enables youth to pursue diverse academic and technical paths. This helps strengthen local communities, supports skills development, and creates opportunities for generational upliftment.

Conclusion
The Sibona Ilanga Trust Bursary Programme is a vital opportunity for students around De Aar who dream of furthering their education but face financial barriers. By offering funding and mentorship through StudyTrust, the bursary equips young people with the resources and guidance they need to succeed. If you meet the requirements, do not miss the chance to apply before the 31 October deadline—this could be the stepping stone to achieving your academic and career goals.