MISA Technical Bursary Programme 2026 – Apply Now to Start Your Tech Career
The Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) is looking for suitable young people to apply for their Technical Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. The closing date for applications is 07 March 2026.
What’s the Bursary All About?
MISA’s Technical Bursary isn’t just a grant – it’s a launchpad for the next wave of engineers, planners and infrastructure pros who will build roads, power homes and shape cities across South Africa.
- Fields covered: Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, Urban Planning, Environmental Management.
- Why it matters: These subjects are the backbone of municipal projects – from fixing potholes to designing new townships.
- Who it’s for: Anyone pursuing a built‑environment qualification, whether at a university, UCT or a TVET college. Rural applicants and families earning below R600 000 a year get a little extra weight in the selection.
If you’re thinking “I want to get paid while I learn”, this bursary often comes with a stipend and the chance to work on real municipal projects during your studies.
Day‑to‑Day What You’ll Do
- Attend lectures – learn the theory behind road design, electrical grids and city planning.
- Lab / field trips – get hands‑on experience with surveying equipment, construction sites or environmental monitoring stations.
- Internship shadowing – work alongside municipal engineers, seeing how decisions are made on the ground.
- Community projects – help design small-scale infrastructure for your own township or school.
It’s a mix of classroom learning and real‑world practice, so you’ll finish school ready to hit the job market straightaway.
Eligibility Checklist
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Nationality | South African citizen or permanent resident. |
| Academic level | • Grade 12 learners eyeing a technical degree, • Current university students in the listed fields, • TVET learners in electrical engineering streams. |
| Financial background | Preference for households earning < R600 000 annually; proof of income required. |
| Special consideration | • Rural applicants, • Previously disadvantaged groups, • Students living with disabilities. |
All applicants, regardless of background, must submit the following as one single PDF:
- Certified South African ID.
- Certified Matric certificate.
- Latest academic results (or current semester grades).
- Previous tertiary results (if already enrolled).
- Proof of registration from your institution.
- Proof of residence / enrolment confirmation.
- Household income proof (affidavit or payslips).
- Financial statement from your higher‑education institution.
Missing any file means your application won’t be processed.
Step‑by‑Step Application
- Download the MISA application template.
- Gather all supporting documents.
- Combine everything into one PDF – keep the file name clear (e.g., “MISA_Bursary_2026_JohnDoe.pdf”).
- Email it to CB.bursaries2026@misa.gov.za.
- Mention your chosen discipline in the subject line and body.
Pro tip: Add “Ms. Nobuhle Latha – Electrical Engineering” in the subject if that’s your field; it helps your file get sorted faster.
Important rules to remember
- No fax, post, or hand‑delivery.
- Only successful applicants will hear back.
- Late submissions = no chance.
Apply today using the link below – and make sure you’re ready before the clock hits 23:59 on 07 March.
Apply right here before it closes
What’s in it for You?
- Stipend (exact amount confirmed by MISA, usually covers living expenses).
- Tuition support – help with course fees at approved institutions.
- Work experience – real projects with municipal offices.
- Career path – after the bursary, you could land roles such as:
- Municipal Engineer
- Infrastructure Planner
- Project Manager
- Electrical Systems Specialist
- Environmental Officer
- Urban Development Planner
From there, you can move into government technical posts, consultancy roles, or leadership on big infrastructure projects.
How to Stand Out
- Show a clear passion for infrastructure: mention a personal project, a field visit, or a community challenge you’ve tackled.
- Keep your academic record tidy – highlight any high grades in maths, physics, or relevant tech courses.
- Attach a short motivation letter (150‑200 words). Explain why you want to build South Africa’s future.
- Proof of financial need – prepare your affidavit or payslip early; don’t wait until the last minute.
- Ask a teacher or mentor to vouch – a quick reference letter can help.
Remember, MISA loves students who already think about how their work benefits the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the bursary only for university students?
No – it covers universities, universities of technology and select TVET engineering pathways.
Can continuing students apply?
Yes. You just need to submit your latest academic results.
Is it limited to rural youth?
No, but rural applicants receive preference.
What happens after I submit?
Only successful applicants will be contacted. The volume of applications is high, so patience is key.
Can I apply for more than one discipline?
No. Submit once, choosing the field that matches your studies.
Quick Reference
- Closing date: 07 March 2026, 23:59
- Email: CB.bursaries2026@misa.gov.za
- Application form: Download from MISA’s portal or request a PDF via email.
- Eligibility: All South African students in built‑environment fields; priority for rural & financially disadvantaged applicants.
Need a Hand?
At Edupstairs, we don’t just list opportunities – we help you win them.
- Check your documents one last time.
- Practice a concise motivation letter.
- Double‑check the deadline and keep a copy of your sent email.
Good luck, and remember: the infrastructure of tomorrow starts with the hands of young people like you today.
