The Knysna Rotary Club, established on the principles of “Service Above Self,” embodies the spirit of Rotary International, a global organization dedicated to promoting humanitarian service and goodwill.
With 45 active members, the Knysna chapter tirelessly supports various community projects within the greater Knysna area.
Their commitment to education is evident through the Knysna Rotary Bursary program, one of their largest annual endeavors.
About the Knysna Rotary Bursary Programme
Established in 1982, the Knysna Rotary Bursary program stands as the club’s largest annual budgetary commitment.
Funded through local initiatives like the Rotary Golf Weekend, the program awards bursaries to deserving Knysna residents pursuing undergraduate studies in various fields.
These fields cover a diverse range, including:
- Accounting
- Ambulance Training
- Architect Drawing
- Business Management
- Education
- Engineering
- Journalism
- Law
- Marketing
- Media and Communication
- Medicine
- Nature Conservation
- Nursing and Caring
- Social Work
The bursary program prioritizes fields that contribute to basic education and literacy, maternal and child health, and economic and community development.
The Knysna Rotary Bursary offers partial financial assistance, with awards ranging from R6,000 to R30,000.
It’s important to note that applicants must have a secure source of additional funding to cover their entire tertiary education costs.
The bursary disbursement follows a split payment structure.
Upon successful application processing, half of the allocated amount is sent directly to your chosen educational institution.
The remaining half is contingent on your successful completion of mid-year exams or courses.
This bursary is valid for one academic year only. To continue receiving support in subsequent years, successful applicants are required to re-apply.
Eligibility Criteria for the Knysna Rotary Bursary
Before embarking on your application journey, ensure you meet the following minimum eligibility requirements:
- You must have resided within Knysna for a minimum of five years.
- You must be currently enrolled in Matric or have already completed it.
- The bursary solely supports undergraduate qualifications in the aforementioned fields of study. Postgraduate studies are not covered.
- You must demonstrate strong academic ability with a minimum overall average of 50%.
- Having a secured source of funding besides the bursary is mandatory.
Preference may be given to applicants who demonstrate:
- A clear understanding of their chosen field of study and future career aspirations.
- Evidence of strong academic performance in school.
- Involvement and leadership qualities within the school or community.
- Excellent communication skills.
- A strong work ethic.
- Research on accommodation and travel options for their studies.
- A willingness to work during holidays.
- Knowledge about the Rotary International organization.
- Awareness of current national affairs.
- Adequate financial support from parents or guardians.
How to Apply for the Knysna Rotary Bursary
The application process is straightforward. Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Download the Application Form: Download the application form in English or Afrikaans from the Knysna Rotary Club website.
- Complete the Form: Fill out the application form accurately and comprehensively.
- Gather Supporting Documents: Compile clear copies of the following documents:
- Certified copy of your ID document
- Passport-sized photo attached to the application form
- Latest Matric results (if currently in Matric)
- Matric certificate (if Matric is completed)
- Most recent tertiary academic results (if currently studying)
- Mid-year academic results (for existing bursary holders or re-applicants)
- Submit your Application: Email your completed application along with all supporting documents to [email protected]. Ensure you include “Knysna Rotary Bursary 2025” in the email subject line.
Some additional documents that may be requested include:
- Matric results (if completed in 2024)
- End-of-year tertiary results
- Proof of registration from your chosen tertiary institution
- Student number
- Banking details of your tertiary institution
Closing Date for the Knysna Rotary Bursary
The closing date for the 2025 Knysna Rotary Bursary applications is yet to be released.
Knysna Rotary Bursary Contact
For any queries related to the Knysna Rotary Bursary program, you can contact the Knysna Rotary Club directly through the following channels:
- Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
- Contact Page: https://knysnarotary.co.za/contact-us/