The Athlone Institute Bursary Project Fund (AIBPROF) is once again inviting students to apply for financial aid for the 2025 academic year. This initiative, aimed at supporting the educational aspirations of students in Paarl and Mbekweni, Western Cape, is a lifeline for many who dream of attaining tertiary qualifications.
Founded under the auspices of the Athlone Institute Trust (AIT), the bursary fund has a rich legacy of fostering education and empowerment among South African youth. For over 90 years, the AIT has made significant contributions to educational development, with the bursary project emerging as a cornerstone of its mission.
History and Legacy of the Athlone Institute
The Athlone Institute Trust (AIT) was established in 1926 as a response to the need for higher education opportunities for coloured students in Paarl and surrounding areas. Recognizing the importance of accessible education, the bursary fund took shape in 1998 and was later renamed the Athlone Institute Bursary Project Fund (AIBPROF) in 2006. Since then, the program has provided financial aid to over 1500 students pursuing tertiary education.
Notably, in 2020 alone, the bursary fund disbursed R600,000 in financial aid, supporting 42 students from diverse fields of study. This commitment to community upliftment underscores the fund’s dedication to creating a brighter future for South African youth.
Bursary Programme Details for 2025
For the 2025 academic year, the AIBPROF bursary will offer partial financial assistance to cover registration and tuition fees. The bursary is open to students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies at recognized institutions across South Africa. The exact value of the bursary will be determined by the Athlone Institute Trust (AIT) based on individual circumstances.
Fields of study are not restricted, allowing applicants to pursue their passions and career goals. This inclusivity reflects the fund’s commitment to empowering students regardless of their academic discipline.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Athlone Institute Bursary Project Fund, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- South African Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens by birth.
- Residency: They must reside in Paarl or Mbekweni, Western Cape, or be parishioners of one of the five member churches under the Athlone Institute Trust:
- St Stephen’s Anglican Church
- Immanuel UR Church
- Bethel United Congregational Church (UCC)
- Holy Trinity Anglican Church
- Zions Uniting Reformed Church
- Matric Completion: Candidates must have completed Matric.
- Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate financial need.
- Enrolled in Tertiary Education: Candidates should be registered or planning to register for a recognized undergraduate or postgraduate program at a TVET College, University, or University of Technology.
- Academic Performance: Current students must provide proof of passing their previous academic year.
- Community Involvement: Willingness to participate in community service and a mentoring program within the Paarl/Mbekweni area is essential.
Application Process
The AIBPROF bursary application process is conducted online, offering a streamlined way for applicants to submit their details and required documents. Applicants must complete the online form and upload the following mandatory supporting documents:
- Certified copy of their ID document.
- Matric certificate (for first-year applicants).
- Full academic record (if currently enrolled in tertiary education).
- Proof of registration at a recognized tertiary institution.
- Proof of registration fee payment.
- Proof of residence.
- Certified copies of income statements or affidavits indicating household income.
- Completed student account information form (downloadable from the AIBPROF website).
- Official testimonial from a religious leader.
- Declaration of information form.
It is critical to ensure that all documents are submitted before the deadline to avoid disqualification.
Important Dates and Contact Information
The closing date for the Athlone Institute Bursary application is 28 February 2025. Late submissions will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to apply early.
For queries or additional assistance, interested applicants can contact the Athlone Institute directly:
- Contact Person: Ernest
- Telephone: 072 360 3710
- Email: admin@athlonebursary.co.za
Check also: Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality Bursary Programme 2025
The Athlone Institute Bursary Project Fund (AIBPROF) is a beacon of hope for students in Paarl and Mbekweni, offering vital support to those who face financial challenges in their pursuit of higher education. By breaking down barriers to education, the bursary fund continues to nurture South Africa’s next generation of leaders, professionals, and changemakers.