Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Bursary Guide
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Bursary Programme is a major government funding initiative aimed at developing skilled professionals in environmental management, forestry, marine science, and climate change. Bursaries are awarded to full-time, unemployed South African students enrolled at or entering recognized public higher education institutions.
The program aims to address critical skills shortages in green industries while promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion (race, gender, and disability representation). A mandatory public sector internship program is attached to the bursary upon successful completion of studies.
DFFE Bursary Summary & Overview
Here is an essential overview of the DFFE bursary structure and requirements:
| Program Feature | Details & Specifications |
|---|---|
| Funding Body | Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). |
| Eligible Fields | Forestry, Marine Biology, Environmental Management, Fisheries Science, Climate Change, Waste Management, GIS, and related Engineering. |
| Study Levels | National Diplomas, Undergraduate Degrees, BTech, Honours, Master's, and PhD degrees. |
| Capped Funding Amount | Up to a maximum of R50,000.00 per academic year. |
| Employment Status | Must be unemployed full-time students or current Grade 12 (Matric) learners. |
| Work Service Contract | Mandatory participation in the DFFE Graduate Internship Programme upon graduation. |
Key Focus Areas & Covered Study Fields
Supports Diploma, BSc, Honours, and Master's qualifications in Forestry Management, Forest Science, Wood Technology, and Veld Fire Management.
Covers specialized qualifications in Marine Science, Fisheries Science, Oceanography, Maritime Law, and Aquatic Science.
Funds Environmental Science, Conservation Ecology, Geohydrology, Environmental Economics, Civil/Chemical Engineering, and Climate Change Studies.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following baseline requirements to qualify for evaluation:
- Citizenship: South African citizen with a valid ID document.
- Academic Level: Grade 12 (Matric) learners or full-time students registered at an accredited South African public tertiary institution.
- Employment Status: Must be completely unemployed.
- Internship History: Candidates who have previously completed a public service internship are ineligible.
- Transformation Target: Designated groups (Black candidates, female applicants, and persons with disabilities) are strongly encouraged to apply.
Compulsory Supporting Documents
When applying, ensure all required documents are clear, certified, and fully attached:
- Written motivation letter explaining why you should be awarded the bursary.
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copies of ID for both parents or legal guardians.
- Latest Grade 12 results (if currently in Matric) or Grade 12 NSC certificate.
- Official tertiary academic transcript and progress report (if currently studying at university or college).
- Proof of university registration or official acceptance letter.
- Proof of household income (salary payslips, SASSA grant letters, or affidavit if parents are unemployed).
- Death certificates if parent(s) are deceased.
How to Apply for the DFFE Bursary
Follow these official steps to complete and submit your application correctly:
- Download Form: Obtain the official DFFE Bursary Application Form from the Department's official website (`dffe.gov.za`) when the application call opens (typically around September/October).
- Fill in Details: Complete all personal, financial, and study details accurately. Ensure you clearly indicate the Reference Number and specific study field for your course.
- Attach Documents: Include all required certified copies and motivation letter.
- Submit via Post/Hand Delivery: Send your application packet via post or hand-deliver it to the DFFE offices in Pretoria or Cape Town. Note: Email and faxed submissions are strictly NOT accepted.
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