KwaZulu-Natal Department of Arts and Culture Bursary Opportunities

he KwaZulu-Natal Department of Arts and Culture has called on students who are eager to pursue a career in the arts and culture related areas to apply for a bursary.

“With protests raging against university fees countrywide, it is of even greater importance that the youth are afforded as many opportunities as possible to advance their education,” KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Arts and Culture, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, said.

She said the department hopes that, through the awarding of these bursaries, it is able to assist those eager to realise their potential as artists and make a difference in the country.

The provincial department is offering bursaries in Jewellery design, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Languages, Performing and Non Performing Arts, Anthropology, Restoration and Conservation, and Archival Studies.

“Youth with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The bursaries will cover full-time studies only at public higher education institutions, and covers tuition fees, meals or stipends, accommodation, and prescribed textbooks where necessary,” the provincial department said.

Students are responsible for their own admission to a tertiary institution and accommodation within a university’s residence.

“Preference will be given those who pursue studies at institutions within KwaZulu-Natal. Bursaries will be awarded to those who choose to study at public higher education institutions, unless their chosen course is only offered at private institutions,” the provincial department said.

Successful recipients will enter into a contract with the department for a number of years equivalent to the duration of the period of study.

They may be required to serve the department for the same number of years specified in the bursary contract, unless stated otherwise.

To qualify for the bursaries, students must possess a matric or grade 12 certificate, be between the ages of 18 and 35, and reside in KwaZulu-Natal.

“Students must also have a provisional acceptance letter from a public institution of higher learning, and willing to study courses in the fields indicated above. Students who are currently studying in the indicated arts fields above are also eligible to apply,” the provincial department said.

To apply for the bursaries, students must fill out a bursary application form available from Operation Sukuma Sakhe war rooms, Department of Education District Offices, Municipality offices, and Student Funding Offices at higher education institutions.

The advertisement and forms are also available to download from the KZN Arts and Culture website www.kzndac.gov.za.

The closing date for applications is 30 October 2016.