BOUT THE BURSARY PROVIDER – UYDF
The Umthombo Youth Development Foundation (UYDF) is a South African non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering rural youth through education, mentorship, and professional development in the healthcare sector.
UYDF focuses on addressing the shortage of healthcare workers in underserved communities by providing bursaries, mentoring, life skills training, and career support to students from rural areas.
By investing in young people, UYDF strengthens healthcare services and promotes long-term development within marginalized regions.
ABOUT THE UYDF BURSARY PROGRAMME – FIELDS COVERED
The UYDF Bursary Programme invites applications for the 2026 academic year.
This bursary is intended for students who receive NSFAS funding but require additional top-up support to cover remaining academic and living expenses.
Eligible Fields of Study (Health Sciences)
Applicants must be studying towards one of the following degrees:
- Audiology
- Dentistry
- Dental Therapy
- Nursing
- Occupational Therapy
- Physiotherapy
- Radiography / Ultrasonography
- Speech & Language Therapy
Bursaries will only be awarded to students from the Umkhanyakude, Zululand, and King Cetshwayo districts in KwaZulu-Natal.
MORE ABOUT THE UYDF BURSARY – SUPPORT & BENEFITS
The bursary provides the following:
- Top-up funding for NSFAS allowances not fully covered
- Academic and social mentoring to support student well-being
- Work exposure opportunities at rural hospitals for practical experience
- Participation in Student Life Skills Workshops
- Shortlisted applicants will attend a ZOOM interview between January and February 2026
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must meet all of the following minimum criteria:
Residency Requirements
You must be from one of the following districts and their hospital catchment areas:
Umkhanyakude District
- Bethesda
- Hlabisa
- Manguzi
- Mosvold
- Mseleni
Zululand District
- Benedictine
- Ceza
- Itshelejuba
- Nkonjeni
- Vryheid
King Cetshwayo District
- Catherine Booth
- Ekombe
- KwaMagwaza
- Mbongolwane
- Nkandla
Academic Requirements
- Currently in Matric OR have completed Matric at a Quintile 1–3 non-fee rural school
- Must be studying or intending to study one of the listed health science qualifications
- Must have university acceptance from a public university (UNISA excluded)
- Must be entering 1st or 2nd year in 2026
- Must be studying towards your first degree
Funding Requirements
- Must have NSFAS funding or proof of NSFAS acceptance for 2026
Work-Back Commitment
- Must be willing to work at one of the listed hospitals for at least 2 years after graduation
Preference will be given to matriculants.
HOW TO APPLY FOR THE UYDF BURSARY
Applications must be submitted online: UYDF Bursary Application Form 2026
REQUIRED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
Submit clear certified copies of the following:
- ID document / passport
- Matric June results or Matric certificate
- Full academic record and letter confirming the year of study (if applicable)
- Proof of application or acceptance to a tertiary institution
- Latest university fee statement (if currently studying)
- Proof of NSFAS application or NSFAS funding approval
Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
CLOSING DATE
📅 31 December 2025
Late applications will not be accepted.
CONTACT THE BURSARY PROVIDER
For queries, contact the Umthombo Youth Development Foundation:
Contact Person: Cebile Zungu
📞 031 765 5774
📩 Cebile@umthomboyouth.org.za
Contact during office hours only.