Funza Lushaka Bursary for Future Teachers at UFH

The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is a significant initiative by the Department of Basic Education in South Africa. Its main goal is to encourage more people to become teachers in public schools by offering full financial support. This multi-year teaching bursary is available to eligible students who want to pursue a teaching qualification in specific, high-demand subject areas at public Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) like the University of Fort Hare (UFH).

Recipients of the Funza Lushaka Bursary make a commitment to teach at a public school in South Africa for the same number of years they received the bursary. This ensures that the investment in their education directly benefits the country's schooling system, addressing critical teacher shortages.

Funza Lushaka Bursary Coverage: What's Included?

The Funza Lushaka Bursary offers comprehensive funding, aiming to cover all essential study-related expenses. This support allows students to focus on their studies without the burden of financial worries. The bursary typically includes:

• Tuition fees: The full cost of your university studies.
• Accommodation: Covering your residence fees.
• Meals: Providing for your daily food expenses.
• Books and learning materials: Ensuring you have all necessary academic resources.
• Monthly living allowance: A small amount to help with personal expenses.
• Teaching practice allowance: Support for practical teaching components.

Funza Lushaka Bursary Eligibility Criteria at UFH

To be considered for this valuable Funza Lushaka Bursary at the University of Fort Hare, applicants must meet specific requirements:

General Funza Lushaka Eligibility Requirements

• You must be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
• Generally, first-time university entrants should be under 30 years old.
• You must not already possess a previous teaching qualification.
• You must be accepted into an approved Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) or Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) qualification at UFH.

Academic Requirements for Funza Lushaka First-time Applicants

If you are applying directly from Matric or Grade 12 for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, you need:

• An exemption, endorsement, or admission to bachelor's degree studies.
• At least a Level 4 (50%) pass in Matric for two subjects you intend to specialise in as a teacher.
• For Foundation Phase teaching, a minimum of Level 2 (30%) in Mathematics OR Level 4 (50%) in Mathematical Literacy is required, along with Level 4 (50%) in your Home Language.

Funza Lushaka Bursary Renewal: Academic Requirements

For students already receiving the Funza Lushaka Bursary and seeking renewal, the following academic performance is essential:

• You must have passed all modules studied in the prior academic year.
• Achieve a minimum of 55% pass average across all your modules.
• Achieve a minimum of 66.5% pass average in the modules directly related to your priority subject area of teaching specialisation.

Funza Lushaka Bursary Priority Subject Areas for Teachers

The Funza Lushaka Bursary specifically targets areas where there is a high demand for teachers in South Africa. This includes specialisations for both Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degrees and Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) for Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (FET) teaching.

Key priority subject areas across various teaching phases include:

• Mathematics
• Physical Sciences
• Life Sciences
• Technology
• South African Indigenous Languages

Other subjects may also be considered based on national needs, covering Foundation, Intermediate, Senior, and FET phases for a Funza Lushaka teaching bursary.

Funza Lushaka Bursary Application Process & Key Dates

Applying for the Funza Lushaka Bursary is done nationally and online.

How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary Online

All Funza Lushaka applications are submitted through the e-Gov portal. You can find more information and apply at www.eservices.gov.za. It is also advisable to visit www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za for detailed programme information.

Funza Lushaka Bursary Application Timeline Example

While dates can vary slightly each year, an example based on the 2026 academic cycle shows typical application periods for the Funza Lushaka Bursary:

• Applications for the 2026 academic year generally opened around 7 October 2025.
• The closing date for new applicants was typically 24 January 2026.
• Re-applications for returning students usually closed earlier, around 30 November 2025.

It is crucial to check the official e-Gov portal for the exact Funza Lushaka application dates for your intended academic year.

University Admission: A Prerequisite for Funza Lushaka

A very important step before applying for the Funza Lushaka Bursary is to ensure you have already been accepted into an approved B.Ed or PGCE qualification at a public university like the University of Fort Hare. The bursary application is separate from your university application, but university admission is a prerequisite for bursary consideration.

What the Funza Lushaka Bursary Does Not Cover

While the Funza Lushaka Bursary is comprehensive, it does not cover all types of educational programmes. The bursary specifically does not fund:

• Extended programmes
• Honours degrees
• Master's degrees
• Doctoral degrees
• Advanced Certificate in Education (ACE) students

Frequently Asked Questions About the Funza Lushaka Bursary

Who can apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary at UFH?

South African citizens under 30 (for first-time university entrants) who are accepted into an approved B.Ed or PGCE programme at the University of Fort Hare and commit to teaching in public schools are eligible.

What expenses does the Funza Lushaka Bursary cover?

The bursary typically covers tuition fees, accommodation, meals, books and learning materials, a monthly living allowance, and a teaching practice allowance, offering comprehensive financial support.

How do I submit my Funza Lushaka Bursary application?

All applications for the Funza Lushaka Bursary are submitted nationally and online through the e-Gov portal at www.eservices.gov.za.

What are the priority teaching subjects for this bursary?

Key priority subjects include Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Technology, and South African Indigenous Languages, across various teaching phases, due to high demand in public schools.

Can I renew my Funza Lushaka Bursary?

Yes, returning students can re-apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, provided they meet specific academic performance criteria, including passing all modules and achieving required averages in their studies and priority subjects.

Conclusion: Secure Your Teaching Future with Funza Lushaka at UFH

The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme offers an incredible opportunity for South African citizens passionate about teaching to achieve their educational goals without financial strain. By supporting future teachers in priority subjects, this Department of Basic Education bursary strengthens the public education system. If you meet the Funza Lushaka eligibility criteria and are committed to serving in public schools, consider applying for this impactful funding at the University of Fort Hare to start your teaching career.