Robben Island Museum (RIM) Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on Robben Island Museum (RIM) Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student with a passion for heritage preservation, history, tourism, arts, or public administration? The Robben Island Museum (RIM) Bursary Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering financial support to deserving students who wish to pursue studies aligned with heritage management, conservation, museum studies, and related fields. As a national heritage institution and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Robben Island Museum plays a vital role in preserving South Africa’s liberation history and promoting education, transformation, and social justice.
The RIM Bursary provides comprehensive financial assistance, which may cover tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, accommodation, meals, and a monthly stipend, depending on funding availability. Beyond financial support, beneficiaries may benefit from experiential learning opportunities, mentorship, and exposure to the heritage, cultural tourism, and public sector environments. The bursary is aimed at academically capable students who are committed to contributing meaningfully to South Africa’s cultural heritage and national memory.
By applying for the Robben Island Museum Bursary 2026/2027, students not only gain access to higher education funding but also position themselves for impactful careers in heritage conservation, museum and archival studies, tourism, education, and public service.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading to find out more about the eligibility requirements, fields of study covered, application process, and closing date for the Robben Island Museum (RIM) Bursary Programme 2026/2027.
About Robben Island Museum
The Robben Island Museum (RIM) was established in 1997 by the Department of Arts and Culture and is mandated to manage, conserve, and promote Robben Island as a National Estate and UNESCO World Heritage Site. RIM plays a vital role in preserving the Island’s layered political, social, and cultural history.
RIM is responsible for the management and maintenance of key heritage assets and infrastructure, including:
- Maximum and Medium Security Prison Complexes
- World War II memorials
- The runway and helipad
- Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront
- Ferries transporting visitors to the Island
- Island transport systems and buses
- The Mayibuye Archives
- Robert Sobukwe’s House
- Power generation and water processing facilities
- Curio and Village Shops, Village Precinct, and recreational facilities
Through these responsibilities, RIM ensures continued public access, education, and conservation of Robben Island’s heritage.
About the Robben Island Museum Bursary Programme 2026/2027
Robben Island Museum invites eligible students to apply for its Internship and Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. This programme is designed to build skills, promote transformation, and develop future professionals in the heritage and museum sectors.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary supports Postgraduate degree studies in disciplines related to:
- Museums and Heritage Studies
- Social Sciences
- History
- Oral History
- Heritage Studies
- Other related academic fields
The programme aligns academic learning with practical exposure, ensuring that scholars contribute meaningfully to heritage conservation and interpretation.
Bursary Value, Coverage and Programme Obligations
Bursary Value and Expenses Covered
Successful applicants will receive a bursary valued at R35 000 per student, which may be used towards:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed books
- Academic and research resources (where necessary)
Internship and Research Obligations
Bursary recipients will be required to:
- Participate in various Robben Island Museum programmes
- Complete an Internship and Research Programme
- Work within the RIM Public Heritage Education Department (PHED)
This practical component is a core part of the bursary and provides invaluable real-world experience in heritage education and museum practice.
Selection Process
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants who do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.
Eligibility Requirements for Robben Island Museum Bursary Application 2026/2027
Applicants must meet all of the following minimum criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must have applied for and registered towards a Postgraduate qualification
- The qualification must be in one of the approved fields of study
- Must be registered at a recognised and accredited university in South Africa
- Must be studying during the 2026 academic year
Applications that do not meet all eligibility requirements will not be considered.
How to Apply for Robben Island Museum Bursary 2026/2027
There is no application form for this bursary. Eligible students must submit all required documents to apply.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit clear copies of the following documents (combined into one single PDF file):
- Certified copies of tertiary qualifications
- Certified academic transcripts
- Proof of university registration for 2026 (on institutional letterhead)
- A full Curriculum Vitae (CV) including:
-
- Contact details
- Names and contact details of references
- A motivational letter explaining:
- Why you should be awarded the bursary
- Why you are suitable for the internship component
Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Submission Details
Applications must be submitted electronically via email to: vanessam@robben-island.org.za
Email subject line: RIM Bursary Application 2026
Closing Date for Robben Island Museum Bursary Application 2026/2027
Application Deadline: 7 July
Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants are encouraged to submit well before the closing date.
Contact Details of Robben Island Museum (RIM)
For further information or enquiries regarding the bursary and internship programme, contact Robben Island Museum directly:
Contact Person: Ms Vanessa Mitchell
Department: Public Heritage Education Department
Tel: 021 413 4200
Email: vanessam@robben-island.org.za
