The Grassroots Youth Development (GYD) Bursary Programme for 2026 is an empowering educational opportunity for young people who want to pursue higher education but may be facing financial difficulties. This bursary is currently open for applications and is primarily designed for students living in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and the Sundays River Valley Local Municipality. By focusing on these areas, the programme aims to uplift communities that often face financial and developmental challenges that hinder youth advancement. GYD Bursary Programme 2026

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The GYD Bursary goes beyond simply paying for tuition. It offers a holistic support system that helps students succeed academically, personally, and financially. The programme covers tuition fees, registration costs, learning materials, accommodation, mentorship, and living or transport allowances. This makes it an excellent opportunity for young people who need both financial and developmental support to successfully complete their studies.

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Programme Summary

• Programme Title: Grassroots Youth Development (GYD) Bursary Programme 2026
• Eligible applicants: Individuals under 29 living in Nelson Mandela Bay or Sundays River Valley
• Study Levels: Undergraduate programmes at public universities, TVET colleges, or FET colleges
• Fields of Study: Agriculture & Environmental Studies, Arts & Design, Business & Commerce, Education, Health Sciences, Humanities, Law, Social Sciences, Specialized fields, and STEM
• Financial Eligibility: Household income must be R350,000 per year or less
• Coverage: Tuition, registration, study materials, accommodation, mentorship, transport/living allowance
• Application Deadline: 30 January 2026 at 23:59
• Ideal Candidate: A hardworking, academically deserving student with financial need

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About the Grassroots Youth Development (GYD) Organisation

Grassroots Youth Development is a community-focused organisation that aims to empower young people through education, mentorship, and personal development. The organisation supports youth from communities that have limited access to financial resources, exposure, and career opportunities. GYD works closely with local municipalities, schools, universities, and community groups to ensure young people receive meaningful support throughout their academic journeys.

Their approach includes several key areas:

1. Financial Assistance

Students receive funding that helps remove major financial barriers. This allows them to study without the constant stress of fees or lack of resources.

2. Mentorship and Guidance

Students are connected with mentors who help them adjust to campus life, manage academic pressure, and develop essential life skills.

3. Skills Development

GYD offers workshops, training sessions, and professional development opportunities aimed at building confidence and employability.

4. Career Exposure

Beneficiaries may receive opportunities to attend seminars, job-shadowing programmes, or career events relevant to their fields.

This holistic support system ensures that students are not only financially secure but also empowered to graduate and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

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Why the GYD Bursary Matters

Many young people in South Africa possess great academic potential but face financial challenges that prevent them from accessing higher education. For youth especially in municipalities like Nelson Mandela Bay and Sundays River Valley, barriers often include:

• Limited job opportunities
• High dropout rates due to financial strain
• Lack of mentorship or academic support
• High cost of tuition, transport, and study materials
• Reduced access to urban educational resources

The GYD Bursary seeks to bridge this gap. By providing financial relief and mentorship, the programme supports the development of educated citizens who can return to uplift their communities. This creates a positive cycle where education leads to employment, employment leads to development, and development strengthens communities.

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What the GYD Bursary Covers

One of the main advantages of the GYD Bursary Programme is its comprehensive support package. Successful applicants receive:

1. Registration Fees

The bursary covers the initial registration costs, ensuring applicants can secure a place in their chosen institution.

2. Full Tuition Fees

Tuition is paid directly to the university or college, eliminating the need for students to source money throughout the academic year.

3. Prescribed Study Materials

This includes textbooks, lab materials, equipment, or any academic tools required for the student’s programme.

4. Accommodation Support

Students may receive payment for residence at the institution or an allowance for private accommodation depending on circumstances.

5. Transport or Living Allowance

Students receive a monthly stipend to cover essential daily needs such as transport, meals, and personal care.

6. Mentorship and Academic Support

Regular mentorship helps students adapt academically and emotionally, especially during their first year.

This all-inclusive support helps reduce financial pressure, allowing students to focus on performing well academically.

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Fields of Study Supported

The GYD Bursary recognises the importance of various fields in building strong, diverse communities. Applicants may pursue studies in:

• Agriculture & Environmental Studies
• Arts & Design
• Business & Commerce
• Education
• Health Sciences
• Humanities
• Law & Legal Studies
• Social Sciences
• Specialized Fields
• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)

This wide range ensures students have the flexibility to choose a path that best aligns with their talents, passion, and long-term goals.

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Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the GYD Bursary Programme for 2026, applicants must meet these criteria:

• Must be under 29 years old
• Must live in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality or Sundays River Valley Local Municipality
• Must be accepted or provisionally accepted into a public university, TVET college, or FET college
• Household income must be R350,000 per year or below
• Must have a strong academic record showing potential and commitment

These requirements ensure the bursary is awarded to students who truly need financial support and are dedicated to their education.

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Required Documents

To verify eligibility and financial need, applicants must submit several documents.

For First-Time Applicants

• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified copies of parent/guardian IDs
• Matric certificate or recent statement of results
• Academic transcript (if already studying)
• Proof of household income (payslips, affidavits, SASSA letters, etc.)
• Proof of provisional admission or registration
• Proof of residence (utility bill, municipal letter, or affidavit)
• Bank statements of parents/guardians for the last 3 months

For Returning Beneficiaries

• Updated academic transcript showing good progress
• Updated proof of household income
• Bank statements for the last 3 months

Returning students must demonstrate consistent academic performance to remain eligible.

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How to Apply

APPLY FOR THE GRASSROOTS YOUTH DEVELOPMENT (GYD) BURSARY PROGRAMME 2026 HERE

Application Tips

• Ensure all documents are certified and readable
• Double-check that your ID number and contact details are correct
• Submit before the deadline: 30 January 2026 at 23:59
• Keep a copy of your application for personal reference

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the GYD Bursary?

Anyone under 29 years old living in Nelson Mandela Bay or Sundays River Valley who has been accepted into a public tertiary institution and meets the financial requirements can apply.

2. Does the bursary cover TVET college studies?

Yes. The programme covers studies at public universities, TVET colleges, and FET colleges.

3. Do I need to be accepted into a programme before applying?

You must at least have provisional acceptance from a public institution to apply.

4. How do I prove my household income?

You can submit payslips, bank statements, SASSA letters, affidavits, or any official document confirming income.

5. Can I reapply if I am already funded?

Yes, returning beneficiaries can reapply as long as they maintain good academic performance and still meet the income requirements.

6. How will I receive the allowance?

Allowances are typically paid monthly, directly to the student, depending on GYD’s administrative arrangements.

7. What happens if I fail a module?

Students should contact GYD immediately. Continued funding may depend on the organisation’s academic performance guidelines.

8. Is the bursary only for specific fields of study?

No. The bursary covers a wide variety of fields including science, arts, commerce, education, engineering, health sciences, and more.

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Conclusion

The Grassroots Youth Development (GYD) Bursary Programme for 2026 is a life-changing opportunity for young people who want to further their education but face financial barriers. With its comprehensive support structure—financial coverage, mentorship, and personal development—the programme positions students for long-term academic success and meaningful contributions to their communities.

Eligible students are encouraged to apply early, prepare their documents carefully, and take advantage of this remarkable opportunity to secure a brighter future.