Eskom has awarded 200 bursaries for the 2026 financial year, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineers, scientists, and innovators who will drive South Africa’s growth and the country’s energy future. For more than 50 years, Eskom has consistently invested in education and skills development through its bursary programme; it has awarded over 11 000 bursaries within the past decade.
At a time when the country is accelerating its energy transition, Eskom continues to invest in the specialised skills required to modernise and sustain a future-ready electricity system. The bursary programme supports studies in critical fields aligned with Eskom’s strategic priorities and South Africa’s broader skills development agenda, ensuring that education remains a cornerstone of national progress.
The Eskom Bursary Awards Ceremony, held at the Eskom Academy of Learning (EAL) in Gauteng, was attended by the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. His presence confirms government’s commitment to expanding access to education and empowering young South Africans through targeted investment in skills development.
The bursaries awarded reflect Eskom’s approach to nurturing talent, ensuring inclusive access to education and opportunity nationwide, and building a pipeline of diverse, capable, future professionals.
Speaking at the ceremony, Eskom Board Chairperson, Mteto Nyati emphasised the long-term national impact of investing in young people.
“These bursaries represent Eskom’s long-term commitment to nation-building. As we invest in young South Africans today, we are strengthening the skills base that will underpin economic growth, energy security, and inclusive development for decades to come. This is how we build a resilient and sustainable future for our country,” said Nyati.
Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, highlighted the programme’s strategic role in preparing the workforce needed for a rapidly evolving energy landscape.
“South Africa’s energy transition requires skilled, innovative, and committed professionals. Through this bursary programme, Eskom is deliberately building the pipeline of engineers, scientists, and specialists who will lead the transformation of our energy system and ensure its reliability for generations to come,” said Marokane.
Beyond financial assistance, the bursary programme provides beneficiaries with access to quality education, mentorship, and career-defining opportunities in sectors that are key to South Africa’s development. The bursaries award are intended to build specialised expertise, enhance the employability of the recipients and contribute to innovation, economic growth, and national progress.
Dr Candice Hartley, Chief People Officer at Eskom, underscored the future-focused approach of the programme in driving critical skills development. “Our bursary programme goes beyond financial support. It is about giving students from all walks of life access to mentorship, development, and meaningful career pathways. We are proud to walk this journey with talented young people as they equip themselves with future-fit skills, ready to contribute to South Africa’s evolving energy sector,” Hartley said.
While celebrating academic excellence the bursary awards ceremony also symbolises hope, opportunity, and Eskom’s commitment to youth development, transformation, and nation-building. The bursary awards form part of Eskom’s long-term strategy to build technical capability, develop future leaders, and secure the sustainability of South Africa’s energy sector. Through sustained investment in education and skills development, Eskom continues to power the potential of South Africa’s youth.
For more information visit: www.eskom.co.za
