South Africa’s education system relies on passionate, skilled, and future-ready teachers—especially in subjects that fuel innovation, technology, and economic growth. If you are a young Black woman with aspirations of studying STEM and becoming part of the next generation of educators, the STET Bursary Programme 2026 could be the opportunity that reshapes your future.
The Support Teacher Empowerment Trust (STET) invites aspiring female educators to apply for its 2026 bursary programme. More than just financial assistance, this initiative is designed to develop confident, digitally skilled teachers who can positively transform classrooms and communities across South Africa.
This is not just a bursary—it is an investment in your education, leadership potential, and the future of South African schooling.
Quick Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary Provider | Support Teacher Empowerment Trust (STET) |
| Year of Study | 2026 |
| Who Can Apply | Black female South African citizens |
| Age Requirement | 18 – 35 years |
| Level of Study | Undergraduate |
| Fields Covered | STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) |
| Institution | University of South Africa (UNISA) |
| Application Method | Online |
| Closing Date | 5 January 2026 |
About the Support Teacher Empowerment Trust (STET)
Established in 2017, the Support Teacher Empowerment Trust (STET) is a South African non-profit organisation with a focused mission: to empower future educators and improve teaching standards nationwide.
STET was founded in response to growing challenges within the education sector, particularly in under-resourced schools where learners often lack access to qualified teachers, digital skills, and modern learning tools.
What Sets STET Apart?
Unlike bursaries that focus solely on tuition support, STET adopts a holistic approach to teacher development by offering:
- Financial assistance through teaching bursaries
- Structured mentorship programmes
- Skills development and leadership training
- A strong focus on digital education
- Exposure to industry-relevant teaching practices
STET prioritises high-demand subjects such as:
- Coding
- Robotics
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Mathematics
- Science
Through this approach, STET actively addresses South Africa’s digital divide and prepares future teachers for a technology-driven education system.
About the STET Bursary Programme 2026
The STET Bursary Programme 2026 targets Black female students pursuing undergraduate STEM qualifications with the intention of contributing to basic education in South Africa.
Applications are open to students who are either:
- Currently studying at UNISA, or
- Planning to register at UNISA for the 2026 academic year
Why UNISA?
UNISA plays a vital role in expanding access to higher education. Its distance-learning model enables students from rural and disadvantaged communities to study without the financial burden of relocation or accommodation.
By partnering with UNISA, STET ensures:
- Increased accessibility
- Nationwide reach
- Inclusive participation for women across all provinces
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary supports undergraduate qualifications in STEM fields, including but not limited to:
- Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Coding and Robotics-related qualifications
- Engineering-related STEM pathways (as offered by UNISA)
- ICT-focused education streams
These fields are essential for:
- Preparing learners for the Fourth Industrial Revolution
- Improving numeracy and science literacy
- Developing South Africa’s future workforce
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be Black
- Be female
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Have completed Matric
- Be studying or intending to study towards an undergraduate STEM qualification
- Be studying or planning to study at UNISA
This bursary is intentionally structured to address historical inequalities and empower women in fields where they remain underrepresented.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the STET Bursary Application 2026 online platform
- Complete the online application form accurately
- Upload all required supporting documents
- Review your application carefully
- Submit your application before the closing date
Important: Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must upload clear, certified copies of the following:
- South African ID
- Matric certificate or final results
- Latest academic record (if currently studying)
- A motivational letter explaining:
- Why you want to study STEM
- Why you want to become an educator
- How this bursary will positively impact your life and community
Your motivational letter is a critical part of your application—it helps STET assess your passion, commitment, and long-term goals.
Closing Date
5 January 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Advice for Applicants
At Jobslink, we encourage applicants to apply strategically:
- Apply early—do not wait until the last day
- Invest time in writing a strong, honest motivational letter
- Ensure all documents are clear, certified, and up to date
- Apply for multiple bursaries to improve your chances
Remember: one successful application can change the course of your future.
Career Growth Opportunities After the Bursary
STET bursary recipients gain access to long-term career pathways, including:
- Qualified STEM educator
- Coding or Robotics teacher
- ICT integration specialist in schools
- Education project coordinator
- Curriculum developer
- Educational technology trainer
- Leadership roles in education NGOs
- Postgraduate studies in education or STEM-related fields
STET’s mentorship-driven model ensures beneficiaries graduate not only with qualifications, but as leaders ready to drive education transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the STET bursary only for women?
Yes. The bursary is specifically designed for Black female students.
Can I apply if I am not yet registered at UNISA?
Yes. You may apply as long as you intend to study at UNISA in 2026.
Does STET support postgraduate studies?
No. The 2026 bursary is for undergraduate studies only.
Is the bursary limited to teaching degrees?
The focus is on STEM fields linked to education, particularly those relevant to basic education and digital skills development.
Will I be required to participate in mentorship programmes?
Yes. Mentorship and skills development are essential components of the STET programme.