Department of Human Settlements opens 2026 scholarship for youth in built environment

The Department of Human Settlements is offering a scholarship opportunity for South African youth planning to study in 2026. Prospective students in the built environment are encouraged to apply before the 7 January 2026 deadline.

What Happened

The Department of Human Settlements officially opened its 2026 scholarship programme, targeting qualifying youth pursuing studies in key infrastructure-related fields. The programme is aimed at addressing critical skill shortages within the department and offers full funding for tertiary studies in the following fields:

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• Architecture / Architectural Technology
• Construction Management / Construction Science
• Civil Engineering
• Geographical Information Systems
• Town and Regional Planning / Urban and Rural Studies
• Quantity Surveying / Land Surveying / Building Surveying

Application forms can be downloaded from the department’s website at www.dhs.gov.za/node/2091 and must be emailed to scholarships2026@dhs.gov.za before the closing date.

Official Response

In a public notice, the department said:

“This opportunity is for prospective students interested in the built environment. Applications open from 22 December 2025 to 7 January 2026. Don’t miss out!”

Community Impact

The scholarship aims to assist disadvantaged youth, particularly those from underrepresented areas, in accessing careers within the human settlements sector. With fields like town planning and GIS critical to local development, the programme is expected to strengthen future public service delivery.

How to Apply:
Visit www.dhs.gov.za/node/2091
Email your completed form to: scholarships2026@dhs.gov.za
Deadline: 07 January 2026