South African students now have a golden opportunity to further their studies and build successful careers, thanks to the Ford Philanthropy and Gift of the Givers Scholarship South Africa 2025. This scholarship program is a beacon of hope for talented individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, offering financial support for qualifications in technical and engineering fields.
About the Scholarship Program
The collaboration between Ford Philanthropy and the Gift of the Givers Foundation is a remarkable initiative aimed at nurturing talent and empowering South Africa’s future leaders. By addressing the financial challenges faced by many students, this partnership helps bridge the gap between potential and opportunity, creating pathways for sustainable career growth.
About the Organizers
Ford Philanthropy
Established in 1949, Ford Philanthropy is the global philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company. It channels Ford’s profits into meaningful programs, focusing on equity, mobility, education, and entrepreneurship. Its initiatives are driven by a mission to address critical community needs worldwide, with education as a key pillar.
Gift of the Givers Foundation
As Africa’s largest disaster response NGO, the Gift of the Givers Foundation has an outstanding reputation for transformative impact. With a focus on education, healthcare, disaster relief, hunger alleviation, water provision, and human development, the foundation consistently uplifts underprivileged communities. Their partnership with Ford is yet another testament to their commitment to sustainable development.
Fields of Study Covered
For the 2025 academic year, the scholarship caters to students pursuing the following qualifications:
- N4–N6 Automotive, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering
- NCV Mechatronics Levels 2, 3, and 4
These programs equip students with industry-relevant skills, preparing them for careers in engineering, technology, automotive, and manufacturing sectors.
Who Should Apply?
The scholarship is aimed at talented, determined individuals who come from under-resourced communities and have a passion for technical and engineering fields. Importantly, recipients are not required to commit to a work-back agreement, giving them the freedom to pursue their career aspirations.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- South African Citizenship: Only South African citizens are eligible.
- Disadvantaged Background: Applicants must come from underprivileged communities.
- Academic Level: Applicants must either:
- Be in Grade 12 in 2024 or
- Have already completed Matric.
- Field of Study: Must be studying or intending to study one of the listed qualifications.
- TVET Enrollment: Applicants must register at a TVET College in South Africa.
- Funding Status: Applicants must not be receiving NSFAS funding.
Application Process
Applying for this scholarship is straightforward and requires no application form. Interested candidates should submit their applications via email to mandy.mncwabe@giftofthegivers.org. Ensure the subject line includes the college name and course name.
Required Documents
Applicants must include the following documents in their email submission:
- Certified copy of ID document.
- Latest school report, stamped by the school (if in high school).
- Provisional acceptance letter from a TVET College (if not yet studying).
- Academic record for 2024, stamped by the college (if currently studying).
- Proof of registration or enrollment (if already registered).
- Financial or fee statement (if currently studying).
- Proof of residence stamped by a traditional council or municipal councillor.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A motivational letter explaining why the applicant deserves the scholarship.
Tip: Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter in 2024
Deadline for Applications
The closing date for applications is 11 February 2025. Applicants are encouraged to prepare their submissions early to avoid missing this vital opportunity. Late applications will not be considered.
Contact Information
For more details or assistance, applicants can contact the Gift of the Givers Foundation:
- Contact Person: Mandy Mncwabe (Bursary Coordinator)
- Tel: 0800 786 911 (toll-free)
- Email: mandy.mncwabe@giftofthegivers.org
Why This Scholarship Matters
This partnership between Ford Philanthropy and Gift of the Givers is more than just financial support—it is a transformative initiative aimed at breaking down barriers to education. By focusing on technical and engineering fields, the scholarship ensures that South African students are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in critical industries, contributing to national development.
Related: SIOC Community Development Trust Bursaries 2025
Students who aspire to become leaders in the engineering and technical fields are encouraged to take advantage of this scholarship. It is not just an opportunity to pursue higher education—it’s a chance to shape a brighter future for themselves and their communities.