- ISPA has announced that applications for funding for the 2025 academic year will open next week.
- To date, the programme has awarded seven bursaries to South African students.
- Applications open on 2nd September and close on 30th October 2024.
The Internet Service Providers’ Association (ISPA) has announced that applications for its ISPA Inspires educational sponsorship programme opens on Monday, 2nd September.
ISPA Inspires was created to assist young South Africans who hoped to pursue a career in Information Communications Technology but didn’t have the means.
Recipients of the sponsorship in the past include:
- Thembelihle Mzobe, Mduduzi Shangase (2024),
- Maile Selala, Ruchelle Coetzee (2023),
- Tracey Bungu (2022),
- Fabian Brijlal, Jordy Kafwe (2021).
“South Africa’s most forward-thinking tech and telecoms firms are very likely to be ISPA members and this membership base remains dedicated to fostering the growth of young South African ICT talent,” says Sasha Booth-Beharilal, ISPA chair.
The sponsorship is available to students whether they decide to study at a university, TVET college and other institutions offering accredited ICT training or sector-specific courses.
Applications can be submitted here from Monday onwards and applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen,
- Must be 35 years-old or younger,
- Current or prospective undergraduate students enrolled for the 2025 academic year at a South African TVET college, university, registered private college, or registered higher educational institution,
- Applicants enrolled or planning to enrol in a field of study related to ICT.
Postgraduates and students who are already funded by an existing bursary or scholarship aren’t eligible. ISPA also notes that priority will be given to previously disadvantaged individuals.
There is however no requirement to have previous experience in the information technology sector.
“ISPA is committed to empowering the next generation of ICT professionals. The ISPA Inspires educational sponsorship programme provides vital support for aspiring students and strengthens our community by fostering growth and innovation within the sector,” Aurora Vani, chairperson of ISPA’s Social Development Working Group said in a statement.
Applications for ISPA Inspires close on 30th October so capitalise on applications when they open on Monday.
