The Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture (DSAC) is inviting applications for its bursary program for the 2025 academic year. This is a fantastic opportunity for students passionate about pursuing a career in heritage-related fields. The bursary program is designed to support talented students in achieving their academic goals while contributing to South Africa’s rich cultural and historical legacy.
About DSAC
The Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture (DSAC) is committed to building a better future for all South Africans. Through promoting equitable access to sports, arts, and cultural programs, DSAC aims to foster socio-economic development and excellence in participation. By supporting education in these critical areas, the department contributes to preserving and advancing South Africa’s diverse heritage.
Fields of Study Covered by the DSAC Bursary
The DSAC bursary will fund studies in Undergraduate and Postgraduate programs within heritage-related fields. Eligible fields include:
- Anthropology, with a preference for Postgraduates specializing in Forensics.
- Archaeology, with a preference for Postgraduates specializing in Bioarchaeology.
- Geography and Geomatic Sciences, with a preference for Postgraduates specializing in Cartography and GIS.
- Archives and Records Management.
- Library and Information Sciences.
- Conservation of the Built Environment, including Preventive Conservation.
- Heritage and Museum Studies.
- Palaeontology.
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) or courses promoting the preservation and promotion of IKS and South African Living Heritage.
- History.
- Digitization of Heritage Resources.
Bursary Coverage
The bursary offers comprehensive financial support of up to R110,000 per student, covering:
- Tuition fees: Full coverage.
- Prescribed books: Full coverage.
- Electronic devices: Up to R10,000 (requires submission of three receipts or invoices).
- Accommodation: Up to R50,000, where applicable.
- Meals: Up to R18,500, where applicable.
- Transport: Up to R10,000, where applicable.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
- Age: Must be 40 years old or younger.
- Educational status:
- Current Matric students (2024) or individuals who have completed Matric.
- Students studying or intending to study towards an Undergraduate or Postgraduate qualification in the listed fields.
- Applicants must be provisionally accepted at an accredited institution registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training.
- Academic performance: A strong academic record is required.
- Employment status:
- Must not be full-time employed in the private sector, government, or state agencies earning a salary above R130,000.
- Must not be receiving other bursary funding.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online at the official DSAC Bursary Application Portal for 2025.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit certified copies of the following documents:
- ID document.
- Matric certificate or latest results.
- Most recent academic record, if already studying.
- Proof of provisional acceptance or admission at a university.
- Postgraduate students: A progress report from the supervisor (on university letterhead), if writing a dissertation or thesis.
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is 31 January 2025. Late submissions will not be considered, so be sure to apply early.
Contact Information
For any queries about the bursary program, contact the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture directly:
- Visit their contact page: DSAC Contact Us.
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The DSAC bursary is an excellent opportunity to gain financial assistance while contributing to South Africa’s cultural and heritage sectors. Whether you’re passionate about preserving Indigenous Knowledge Systems, exploring Palaeontology, or digitizing heritage resources, this bursary ensures that financial barriers won’t stop you from reaching your academic and professional goals.
The DSAC Bursary 2025 is more than just financial assistance—it’s a stepping stone to preserving and advancing South Africa’s rich cultural and historical legacy. Don’t let financial constraints hold you back—apply now, seize this opportunity, and contribute to the vibrant and diverse heritage of South Africa. Remember, the deadline is 31 January 2025, so act today!