The Compensation Fund has opened applications for its 2025 Bursary Programme, providing South African students with a remarkable opportunity to further their education. The bursary aims to support unemployed COID (Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases) beneficiaries with permanent disabilities and their dependents by covering key educational expenses.
With a closing date of 31 March 2025, eligible applicants are encouraged to seize this opportunity and submit their applications in time.
Who Can Apply?
The bursary programme is divided into two groups:
Group 1: Unemployed COID Beneficiaries with Permanent Disabilities
This group is specifically for individuals who have suffered occupational injuries or diseases and are now permanently disabled. To qualify, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be unemployed and within the working-age range
- Be a COID beneficiary with a permanent disability
- Have been accepted into a recognised higher education institution
- Be willing to enhance their skills to re-enter the workforce or become self-employed
Group 2: Dependants of COID Beneficiaries
This category includes dependants of individuals who were permanently disabled due to workplace injuries or who lost their lives in work-related accidents. The eligibility criteria for this group include:
- Being a South African citizen aged 17 to 35 years
- Being a direct dependant of a COID beneficiary (either disabled or deceased)
- Having secured admission to a recognized tertiary institution
- Studying a field that aligns with the bursary’s focus areas
Fields of Study Covered
The Compensation Fund Bursary Programme covers various study fields, including:
- Engineering (Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, etc.)
- Information Technology (Data Science, Cybersecurity, IT)
- Health and Clinical Sciences
- Actuarial Science, Accounting, and Economics
- Teaching and Education
- Agriculture and other related fields
While these areas are prioritized, the Compensation Fund may consider other relevant study fields based on the applicant’s circumstances and career aspirations.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
The Compensation Fund Bursary is designed to remove financial barriers to education by covering the following:
- Tuition Fees – Full coverage for university or college fees
- Study Materials – Support for prescribed books and learning tools
- Accommodation – Assistance with residence or rental costs
- Monthly Stipend – Financial aid for daily living expenses
The bursary is renewable annually, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
Application Process and Required Documents
Interested applicants must complete the Bursary Application Form and submit it along with the following supporting documents:
- Certified copy of ID document (not older than three months)
- COID pension or claim number (to verify beneficiary status)
- Proof of acceptance from a recognized tertiary institution
- Proof of disability (for Group 1 applicants)
- Academic transcripts or latest results
- Proof of residence (to confirm applicant’s location)
How to Apply?
Applicants have multiple submission options:
- Email: Send applications to CFexternalbursaries@labour.gov.za with “COID Bursary 2025” as the subject line
- Hand Delivery: Submit applications at the Compensation Fund Head Building in Pretoria
- Postal Address: Applications can be posted to:Sub-Directorate: Vocational Rehabilitation, Department of Employment and Labour, Pretoria
Deadline for Applications
The closing date for applications is 31 March 2025. Late or incomplete applications may lead to automatic disqualification. Applicants are advised to ensure that all required documents are included before submission.
Why This Bursary Matters?
For many South Africans affected by workplace injuries or disease-related disabilities, access to education remains a challenge. The Compensation Fund Bursary Programme serves as a lifeline, enabling beneficiaries to gain qualifications and secure a better future.
Furthermore, the bursary also empowers dependants of COID beneficiaries, ensuring that young individuals affected by workplace tragedies can still pursue higher education.
Check also: PN Foundation Bursary Programme 2025
Education remains one of the most powerful tools for social and economic upliftment. The Compensation Fund Bursary Programme is more than just financial assistance—it is a stepping stone towards self-sufficiency and professional success.
Eligible candidates are urged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity. By doing so, they can build a brighter future for themselves and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s workforce.
For more information, applicants should contact the Compensation Fund via the provided email or visit the nearest Department of Employment and Labour office.