The SITFE Bursary 2026 is a life-changing study opportunity for young people who want to build strong futures in Agriculture. Many students discover these career opportunities through trusted platforms like PrimeSETA that share real South African internships and youth programmes. This bursary supports motivated learners from KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, especially those living in sugarcane-growing areas.
What SITFE Means and Why It Matters
The Sugar Industry Trust Fund for Education (SITFE) began supporting education in 1965. It is one of the oldest private education trusts in South Africa. Its purpose is to uplift rural communities while building vital skills for the country’s agricultural sector.
SITFE has already helped more than 10,200 learners. It supports study programmes, upgrades school facilities, and invests in communities where development is truly needed.
About the SITFE Bursary 2026 Programme
This bursary assists Agriculture students who show potential but face financial challenges. It focuses on missing middle households that earn too much to qualify for NSFAS but still cannot afford university fees.
Approved Study Institutions
Students who study Agriculture can apply if they plan to attend:
-
Cedara College of Agriculture
-
Owen Sithole College of Agriculture
-
University of Mpumalanga
The bursary helps students stay focused on their studies and future careers.
SITFE Bursary Selection Timeline
The process ensures that every applicant receives a fair chance:
-
Shortlisting in early December 2025
-
Interviews in mid-December 2025
-
Results based on Grade 11, June marks, or latest tertiary results
-
Final approval after final Matric results
-
Notification by 31 January 2026
Note: The bursary may be withdrawn if a student receives another full bursary or a major study loan.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, students must:
-
Be South African citizens
-
Live in a sugarcane-growing area in KwaZulu-Natal or Mpumalanga
-
Be in Matric or have completed Matric
-
Apply or register for Agriculture studies at an approved institution
-
Come from a missing middle family earning R350 000 – R600 000 per year
Preference is given to:
-
Children from sugarcane farmworker families
-
Students experiencing financial difficulties
-
First-year students near sugar mills or related offices
Documents Required
Submit certified copies of:
-
South African ID
-
Matric results or certificate
-
Latest tertiary results if already studying
-
Proof of sugar industry connection if available
-
Parents’ or guardians’ income proof
-
Death certificates if parents are deceased
-
Proof of 2026 study application or registration
Applications without required documents will not be processed.
How to Apply for the SITFE Bursary 2026
Students can apply in the way that suits them best:
-
Submit online through the official SITFE portal
-
Download and send the form by email or post
Email Subject Line: SITFE Bursary 2026
Postal Address:
Sugar Industry Trust Fund for Education
PO Box 700
Mount Edgecombe
4300
Why the SITFE Bursary 2026 Is Important
This is more than a bursary. It helps young people prepare for successful careers while contributing to South Africa’s growth.
Students supported by SITFE:
-
Receive valuable financial assistance
-
Join an industry that supports food security and rural development
-
Gain skills needed to support local economy growth
-
Become part of a trusted education development programme
The sugar industry remains a major employer, and skilled professionals in Agriculture are needed more each year.
Apply Now
Conclusion: Take the First Step Toward Your Agriculture Career
The SITFE Bursary 2026 gives driven students the chance to study, grow, and uplift their communities. If you live in a sugarcane-growing area and want to build a strong future in Agriculture, this is your opportunity to shine.