Empowering Futures: The Compensation Fund Bursary for 2026
In South Africa, the Compensation Fund plays a crucial role in supporting workers and their families. Operating under the Department of Employment and Labour, its primary mandate is to provide compensation to employees who sustain injuries, contract diseases, or become disabled due to their work, as well as offering support in cases of fatal work-related incidents. Beyond direct compensation, the fund extends its impact through valuable initiatives like its annual bursary scheme, creating pathways for education and career development.
Who Can Benefit from the Compensation Fund Bursary 2026?
The Compensation Fund Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year is a beacon of hope, specifically designed to assist two distinct groups of deserving individuals:
- Group 1: Unemployed COID Beneficiaries with Permanent Disablement (PWD). This bursary aims to facilitate the re-entry or self-employment of individuals who have suffered permanent disablement due to occupational injuries or diseases. The funding supports studies that can equip them with new skills for a sustainable future, helping them regain their independence and contribute to the economy.
- Group 2: Dependents of COID Beneficiaries. This includes dependents (aged 17 to 35 years) of beneficiaries with permanent disablement, as well as dependents of employees who tragically lost their lives due to work-related injuries or diseases. This ensures that the families impacted by such events also have opportunities for educational advancement, breaking cycles of hardship.
Fields of Study Supported
The bursary encourages studies in various critical fields, designed to meet the demands of the South African economy and promote sustainable employment. While not exhaustive, the preferred fields include:
- Accounting and Financial Science
- Actuarial Science
- Economics and Econometrics
- Engineering disciplines (various specialisations)
- Health and Clinical Sciences
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Marine and Maritime Studies
- Quality Control and Environmental Health qualifications
- Mathematics and Science Education
- Statistics and Data Science
Additionally, continuing students pursuing Advanced Diplomas or Honours in specific, high-demand fields like Accounting Science (CTA stream), Chiropractic, Actuarial Science, and Medical Orthotist and Prosthetist at public universities are also encouraged to apply.
What the Bursary Covers & How it Works
The Compensation Fund Bursary offers comprehensive financial support, covering essential study-related expenses to ensure beneficiaries can focus on their education without undue financial burden. This includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed study materials and textbooks
- Accommodation expenses (where applicable)
- A monthly stipend to assist with living costs
This bursary is typically awarded for one academic year at a time but is renewable annually for the entire duration of your chosen qualification. Renewal is contingent upon demonstrating satisfactory academic performance and the continued availability of funds. This structure provides long-term support for deserving students committed to their studies.
Application Tips and Important Considerations
Applying for a bursary requires careful attention to detail. Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria before submitting your application. Gather all required documents and submit them well before the closing date. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you don't hear back within two months of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful for that cycle. Remember, thorough preparation is key to a successful application.
This bursary represents a significant opportunity for COID beneficiaries and their dependents to overcome financial barriers and achieve their educational aspirations, ultimately contributing to their personal growth and the broader South African workforce. Don't miss out on this chance to invest in your future!
