Canon Collins Sol Plaatje Scholarship

If you are a South African student who is passionate about social justice and driven by academic excellence, the Canon Collins Sol Plaatje Scholarship is a funding option you must definitely consider.

Offered by the Canon Collins Trust in partnership with the Sol Plaatje Educational Project, this scholarship supports postgraduate studies in fields that play a part in building a more open and just society. 

About the Canon Collins Sol Plaatje Scholarship

Named after the iconic South African journalist, editor, and human rights activist Sol Plaatje, this scholarship embodies his dedication to education and social change.

It encourages brilliant individuals from South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe to pursue postgraduate studies (Masters or PhD) in three main areas:

  1. Justice: Including climate justice, law, economics, and politics.
  2. Education policy and practice.
  3. Humanities: Including literature, history, anthropology, and the arts.

The scholarship provides financial support ranging from R20,000 to R100,000 per year, depending on individual circumstances.

It covers full-time, part-time, and distance learning programs at accredited South African universities.

Also, scholars benefit from networking opportunities and participation in annual conferences organized by the Canon Collins Trust.

Canon Collins Sol Plaatje Scholarship Application Form

Applications for the Canon Collins Sol Plaatje Scholarship are typically accepted annually from March to May.

Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the Canon Collins Trust website for the latest application updates and deadlines.

The online application form requires the following information:

  1. Personal details (name, contact information, nationality, etc.)
  2. Academic qualifications and transcripts
  3. Proposed study program and university
  4. Motivation letter outlining your academic goals, commitment to social justice, and alignment with the scholarship’s objectives
  5. Two academic references
  6. Financial information and budget breakdown

Completing the application form correctly is very important because thoroughness and clarity improve your chances of selection.

Make sure all documents are submitted before the closing date.

The Canon Collins Sol Plaatje Scholarship Requirements

To be qualified for the Canon Collins Sol Plaatje Scholarship, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  1. Be a citizen of, or have refugee status in, South Africa, Namibia, or Zimbabwe.
  2. Be normally resident in one of the above countries.
  3. Possess a good undergraduate degree from an accredited university.
  4. Have secured admission to a Master’s or PhD program at a South African university in one of the eligible fields.
  5. Demonstrate a strong commitment to social justice and improving the lives of others.
  6. Exhibit excellent academic potential and leadership qualities.

Financial need is also considered during the selection process.

The Canon Collins Sol Plaatje Scholarship Closing Date

The application deadline for the Canon Collins Sol Plaatje Scholarship typically falls in May.

The last application cycle ended in the second half of 2023 and successful applicants were contacted for interviews in October/November 2023.

You should also keep an eye on this website and the official Canon Collins social media channels for scholarship updates and reminders.

For any inquiries regarding the Canon Collins Sol Plaatje Scholarship, please contact the Canon Collins Trust at (+27) 10 500 2303.