The Sibona Ilanga Trust is a community trust that holds shares in the De Aar Solar Power Plant, with the goal of uplifting communities within a 50km radius of the plant. Through its bursary programme, the Trust empowers individuals to pursue further education and training, ensuring that no dream is left behind due to financial constraints.
Who Can Apply
To qualify for this bursary, you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Live within a 50km radius of the De Aar Solar Power Plant.
- Have been accepted into a recognised South African public or private tertiary education or training institution (TVET college, university, or university of technology).
- Be out of school and planning to study or currently studying toward:
- A technical or skills-based qualification (NQF Level 6), e.g., plumbing, bricklaying, etc.
- A National Diploma or Bachelor’s degree.
- A technical or skills-based qualification (NQF Level 6), e.g., plumbing, bricklaying, etc.
You may also apply if you completed your NSC (National Senior Certificate) or NTC (National Technical Certificate) in a previous year.
What the Bursary Covers
Each bursary is tailored to the individual’s financial need and may cover:
- Tuition fees, registration, and exam fees
- Student accommodation
- Meals
- Learning materials such as textbooks and stationery
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
1. Academic performance
Your latest results or your final matric results will be considered.
2. Financial need
You must demonstrate that you lack the financial resources to fund your studies.
How to Apply
There are two ways to apply:
1. Online Application
Submit your application through StudyTrust’s official online platform:
2. Hardcopy Application
Complete the hardcopy form and submit it via:
- Email: b.ndlovu@studytrust.org.za
- In-person: Drop off at the Ethembeni Community Centre,
3 Friedlander Street, De Aar
Only applications that are fully completed and submitted with all required documents will be considered.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 01 May 2025
- Closing Date: 31 October 2025
Be sure to read all instructions carefully before applying to avoid disqualification.

Experienced career development professional with a background in student administration and guidance across several South African universities. Over the years, I have supported students in shaping their academic and professional journeys, providing career counselling, employability training, and placement support. I now focus on helping young graduates successfully transition from university or college into the workplace, bridging the gap between education and employment through practical guidance and career-readiness initiatives.


