Tharisa Bursary Programme 2026 (North West)
The Tharisa Bursary Programme 2026 (North West) is emerging as one of the most attractive full-funding education opportunities for South African students interested in engineering, mining, and science-related careers. Designed to empower academically capable learners and bridge the country’s technical skills gap, this bursary offers more than financial assistance — it provides a direct pathway into the mining industry.
Offered by Tharisa, the programme focuses on supporting students from local communities and labour-sending areas while maintaining strong academic standards. For international readers in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada, this bursary reflects how South Africa’s mining sector invests in long-term talent development and graduate employment pipelines.
Overview of the Tharisa Bursary Programme 2026 (North West)
Reference Number: THMB006RM
Location: North West
Work Level: Student / Graduate
Job Type: Contract
Duration: Short Term
Salary: Market Related
Employment Equity Position: Yes
Closing Date: 18 February 2026
The Tharisa Bursary Programme 2026 (North West) supports students entering or currently enrolled in scarce-skills qualifications. Successful applicants receive comprehensive funding and are later integrated into workplace experience and internship opportunities.
Fields of Study Supported
The bursary is specifically aligned with technical and scientific qualifications that are critical in the global mining and industrial economy. Eligible fields include:
- Mining Engineering (REF: M-ENG003)
- Geology (REF: GEO-003)
- Analytical Chemistry (REF: A-C003)
- Electrical Engineering (REF: E-ENG003)
- Mechanical Engineering (REF: MEC-E003)
- Metallurgy / Chemical Engineering (REF: MET/CHE003)
- Mechatronics Engineering (REF: MECT-E003)
These disciplines are not only in demand within South Africa but also across advanced economies, making this bursary particularly attractive for students who want internationally transferable skills.
What the Tharisa Bursary Covers
A major reason the Tharisa Bursary Programme 2026 (North West) attracts high search interest is its full-coverage financial package. Unlike partial scholarships that only pay tuition, this bursary aims to eliminate most financial stress for students.
Full Tuition Fees
All approved academic fees are covered directly, ensuring students can focus entirely on their studies.
Accommodation Support
Residence or approved private accommodation costs are funded, which is crucial for students relocating to study institutions.
Books and Learning Materials
Essential textbooks and academic resources are included, helping learners maintain strong academic performance.
Monthly Allowance
Recipients receive a monthly stipend for food, transport, and daily living expenses.
Vacation Work at the Mine
At the end of each academic year, bursary beneficiaries participate in structured vacation work, gaining real-world industry exposure.
Graduate Internship Opportunity
After graduation, students are required to complete at least one year of graduate internship with the company, significantly improving employability and professional experience.
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Tharisa Bursary Programme 2026 (North West), applicants must meet both academic and documentation criteria.
Academic Criteria
- A Matric Certificate
- Minimum 60% in Mathematics
- Minimum 60% in Physical Science
Current Students Must Provide
- Proof of registration or institution acceptance letter
- Full tertiary academic record
- Enrollment in one of the approved disciplines listed above
Citizenship Requirement
- Only South African citizens may apply
Preference Considerations
- Applicants from local communities or labour-sending areas receive priority
- Students already funded by another bursary or sponsorship are not eligible
Required Documents Checklist
Preparing documents early significantly improves application success. Applicants should ensure they upload:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Proof of registration or acceptance letter
- Full academic transcript
- Matric certificate
Important Tip: Upload each document in the correct field on the application platform. Incorrect placement may lead to disqualification even if all documents are present.
Why the Tharisa Bursary Programme 2026 (North West) Is Competitive
This bursary stands out because it combines financial support, work experience, and post-study employment pathways. Selection committees typically assess:
- Academic performance consistency
- Alignment between chosen qualification and mining industry needs
- Completeness and accuracy of submitted documentation
- Employment Equity considerations
- Demonstrated commitment to long-term career development
Because it is a full-funding opportunity with structured career progression, early preparation and strong academic results are critical.
Smart Application Tips for 2026 Applicants
- Apply Early: Do not wait until the closing week of 18 February 2026.
- Maintain Strong Grades: Mathematics and Physical Science marks are heavily weighted.
- Tailor Your CV: Highlight technical achievements, projects, and leadership roles.
- Double-Check Upload Fields: Administrative mistakes are common rejection reasons.
- Prepare for Vacation Work: Show willingness to gain hands-on industry experience.
Final Thoughts
The Tharisa Bursary Programme 2026 (North West) is more than a scholarship — it is a structured investment in South Africa’s next generation of engineers, geologists, and technical specialists. By covering tuition, accommodation, books, and providing a monthly allowance, the programme removes financial barriers while simultaneously offering career-building opportunities through vacation work and internships.
For students who meet the academic thresholds and are passionate about science and engineering careers, this bursary can be a transformative opportunity. Careful preparation, accurate documentation, and early submission will significantly increase your chances of selection and set you on a promising professional path in the mining and industrial sector.