Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026 – Apply Now

The Land Bank invites eligible South African students to apply for the Land Bank Bursary Programme, a strategic initiative aimed at developing future professionals in the agricultural and financial sectors. The programme provides comprehensive financial support to deserving students studying at Agricultural Colleges registered with the Council on Higher Education (CHE), with a strong focus on addressing critical skills shortages and promoting inclusive economic participation, particularly among youth from rural and historically disadvantaged communities.

Through this bursary programme, successful applicants gain access not only to financial assistance covering tuition, study materials, and living expenses, but also to valuable developmental opportunities. These include mentorship, workplace exposure, and participation in the Land Bank Alumni Programme, all designed to strengthen professional capacity and contribute to sustainable agriculture, food security, and rural development in South Africa.

Position: Land Bank Bursary Programme (Undergraduate Studies)
Duration: Full academic duration of the approved qualification
Location: South Africa
Closing Date: 05 January 2026

Purpose of the Bursary Programme

The Land Bank Bursary Programme is a strategic initiative aimed at investing in the development of future professionals within the agricultural and financial sectors. By providing financial assistance to deserving students, the programme seeks to address the critical skills shortage facing South Africa’s agricultural industry and promote inclusive economic participation, particularly among historically disadvantaged communities. The programme forms part of Land Bank’s broader socio-economic development efforts and contributes to building a pipeline of skilled graduates who will support sustainable agriculture, food security, and rural development in South Africa.

Aim of the Programme

Through the bursary programme, Land Bank aims to:

• Build a sustainable talent pipeline for critical and scarce skills.
• Promote diversity and inclusion within the agricultural finance ecosystem.
• Empower youth from rural and underprivileged communities.
• Enhance the professional capacity of the agricultural sector to meet South Africa’s socio-economic needs.

Structure of the Bursary Programme

The Land Bank Bursary Programme is structured to provide comprehensive financial support and developmental opportunities to successful recipients. The key components of the bursary structure include:

Financial Support

• Full tuition fee coverage for Agricultural Colleges registered with the Council on Higher Education (CHE) in South Africa.
• Provision for prescribed books, study materials, and a monthly living allowance.
• Accommodation and meal allowances where applicable.

Targeted Fields of Study

• The programme prioritises bursaries for undergraduate studies at Agricultural Colleges registered with the Council on Higher Education (CHE) in South Africa.

Selection Criteria

• Applicants must be South African citizens.
• Preference is given to students from historically disadvantaged backgrounds and rural areas.
• Strong academic performance in Grade 12 (or equivalent) and at tertiary level.
• Demonstrated interest in contributing to the agricultural sector and alignment with Land Bank’s mission.
• Applicants must be between 18 and 28 years of age.

Developmental Support

• Mentorship and academic support through Land Bank’s internal resources and strategic partnerships.
• Exposure to workplace learning opportunities, including vacation work and participation in the Land Bank Alumni Programme.
• Access to professional development workshops and seminars aimed at enhancing employability and leadership skills.

Post-Graduation Commitment

• Successful bursary recipients are encouraged to participate in the Land Bank Alumni Programme, where they will gain valuable insights through networking opportunities.

How to Apply

• Download the application form
• Fully complete the application form and attach all required supporting documents.
• Email the completed application to [email protected].

Closing date for applications: 05 January 2026