The Western Cape Government’s Department of Health and Wellness offers an exciting opportunity for unemployed residents in the province to pursue a career in health sciences through its Full-Time Bursary Programme. This initiative is designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who wish to obtain qualifications in various health-related fields.
The program not only helps individuals achieve their educational goals but also contributes to addressing the healthcare workforce needs in the province.
Purpose and Goals of the Bursary Programme
The Western Cape’s Full-Time Bursary Programme aims to support the development of a well-trained healthcare workforce by offering financial assistance to unemployed residents. The primary goal of the programme is to address the critical skills shortages in the health sector by providing bursaries for specific health science qualifications. These bursaries enable students to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute to the Department of Health and Wellness upon completion of their studies.
Once a bursary holder has obtained their qualification, they are required to apply for available positions within the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness. The programme is designed to ensure that the provincial health sector attracts qualified individuals who can meet the growing healthcare needs of the community. By working within the department after completing their studies, bursary holders “pay back” the bursary through employment, providing valuable service to the province.
Eligibility and Available Qualifications
The Full-Time Bursary Programme is open to unemployed residents of the Western Cape who are interested in pursuing a career in health sciences. The bursary covers various fields of study, all aligned with the Western Cape’s healthcare needs. Some of the key qualifications for which bursaries are available include:
- B Tech Nursing
- BSc Radiography in Diagnostic
- BSc Radiography in Ultrasound
- BSc Radiography in Therapy
- Degree in Nursing
- Degree in Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery
- Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy
- Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy
- Degree in Medicine
- Degree in Speech Therapy
- Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy
- Higher Certificate in R169 Nursing
- Diploma in Nursing R171 (General Nurse)
- Diploma in Nursing R174
- Higher Certificate in Emergency Care Assistant
- National Diploma in Emergency Medical Care
It’s important to note that the list of study fields available for bursaries may change from year to year, depending on the healthcare needs of the province. Each year, the department assesses its service delivery requirements and adjusts the list of qualifications accordingly.
Application Process
The application process for the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness Full-Time Bursary Programme is straightforward, with all applicants required to follow a step-by-step procedure. The application window for 2025 opens on 02 June 2025 and closes on 30 September 2025.
- Register: Applicants must first create an account on the application portal.
- Log In: After registration, applicants can log in using their username and password.
- Apply Online: Once logged in, applicants can begin their application by clicking the “Apply Online” button.
- Complete Application: The application consists of five steps:
- Step 1: Provide personal information.
- Step 2: Enter guardian details.
- Step 3: Submit information about previous qualifications.
- Step 4: Fill in the actual application form.
- Step 5: Upload all required documents (ensure they are scanned and named appropriately).
Applicants are urged to prepare all documents beforehand to avoid delays during the submission process.
Important Considerations
As the bursaries are competitive and the funds are limited, only deserving candidates will be selected. The Department of Health and Wellness uses a selection process to identify those who demonstrate the potential to contribute positively to the healthcare sector. Bursary recipients must then fulfill a service obligation to the department, which includes working within the Western Cape’s health system to gain practical experience through community service.
Collaboration with Higher Education Institutions
The Western Cape Government collaborates closely with various higher education institutions to ensure that bursary recipients meet the admission requirements for the selected qualifications. Students will be required to meet these criteria to qualify for bursary support. This partnership ensures that education and training programs are tailored to meet the specific demands of the healthcare sector in the province.
Apply Now!
The Full-Time Bursary Programme by the Western Cape Government is an excellent opportunity for aspiring healthcare professionals to obtain qualifications in vital health science fields. With funding available for a variety of health-related qualifications, the programme serves as a key step in addressing the ongoing need for skilled professionals in the region.
By offering both financial support and the chance to gain meaningful experience, the Western Cape Government is not only investing in individuals but also in the future of healthcare in the province.
Check also: Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent Bursary Programme (2025)