SANS Killie Campbell Bursaries: Funding for Postgraduate History Research

The South African National Society (SANS) is offering postgraduate students a valuable opportunity to receive financial support for their historical research. The SANS Killie Campbell Bursary Programme is designed to assist students pursuing advanced studies in history, with a particular focus on South African history and the history of KwaZulu-Natal. This bursary can provide approximately R25,000, helping to alleviate the financial pressures associated with postgraduate studies.

The SANS Killie Campbell Bursary has been supporting history students for about 40 years. It aims to encourage and fund students who are undertaking significant research at recognized South African universities. This initiative is crucial for fostering deeper understanding and preservation of South Africa’s rich historical narrative.

Understanding the SANS Killie Campbell Bursary Programme

The SANS Killie Campbell Bursary Programme is specifically for postgraduate students. It supports those who are conducting research, writing a dissertation, or working on a thesis related to history. The program emphasizes research that contributes to the understanding of South African history. There is a special preference for research that delves into the history of KwaZulu-Natal, a region with a complex and significant past.

Fields of Study Supported

This bursary is open to students enrolled in postgraduate programs within history-related fields. This includes:

• Honours Degrees: For students beginning their postgraduate journey, this bursary can support their initial in-depth research.
• Master’s Degrees: Students pursuing a Master’s degree can receive funding for their thesis research.
• Doctoral Degrees: Doctoral candidates undertaking extensive historical research are also eligible for this support.

The core requirement is that the applicant’s research topic must be centered on South African history. Ideally, the research should focus on the history of KwaZulu-Natal, offering a chance to explore specific regional narratives.

Bursary Value and Payment Structure

The SANS Killie Campbell Bursary is valued at approximately R25,000. The final amount awarded is determined by the selection committee. This financial aid is paid out in two equal installments of around R12,500 each.

The payment schedule is as follows:

• First Instalment: This payment is made in September 2026 during a South African National Society monthly meeting.
• Second Instalment: The second payment is released after the Society receives a satisfactory written progress report from the bursary recipient’s academic supervisor. This ensures continued progress and accountability.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants

To be considered for the SANS Killie Campbell Bursary, applicants must meet several key criteria. These requirements ensure that the bursary supports dedicated and qualified postgraduate students.

• Postgraduate Enrollment: Applicants must be currently studying towards a postgraduate qualification.
• Field of Research: The research must be in a history-related field.
• Research Focus: The dissertation or thesis topic must relate to South African history, with a preference for KwaZulu-Natal history.
• University Registration: Applicants must be registered at a recognized and accredited university in South Africa.
• Academic Supervisor: Candidates must be able to provide the details of their academic supervisor.
• Submission Deadline: All required supporting information must be submitted before the closing date of the application period.

Failure to meet these minimum requirements may result in an application not being considered.

The Selection Process

The selection process for the SANS Killie Campbell Bursary involves a careful review of all applications. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview with the selection committee. These interviews can be conducted either in person or electronically, using platforms like Zoom. The South African National Society reserves the right to not award the bursary if no suitable candidate is identified, ensuring the funds are allocated to those who best meet the program’s objectives.

Responsibilities of Bursary Recipients

Successful applicants, known as bursary recipients, will have certain responsibilities. These are designed to ensure the program’s objectives are met and to foster a connection between the recipients and the SANS.

• Research Presentation: Recipients may be asked to present a brief outline of their research topic at one of the Society’s monthly meetings. This allows for sharing of knowledge and engagement with the SANS community.
• Progress Reports: Providing satisfactory academic progress reports is essential for the release of the second installment of the bursary.
• Submission of Work: Recipients are expected to submit a soft copy of their completed dissertation or thesis to the SANS.
• Publication Permission: The completed research may be allowed to be published on the South African National Society website. This helps to disseminate valuable historical research to a wider audience.

Required Documents and Information for Application

There isn’t a specific application form for this bursary. Instead, applicants need to submit a comprehensive package of information and supporting documents. This detailed submission allows the selection committee to thoroughly assess each candidate’s suitability.

The required information includes:

• Personal Details: Full name, gender, email address, and telephone or cellphone number.
• Academic Background: Personal and academic background, academic achievements, and copies of qualifications.
• Research Proposal: The intended research or dissertation topic, an outline of the proposed research, and the level of study (Honours, Master’s, or Doctorate).
• University Information: The name of the university, faculty, and proof of registration or payment to the institution.
• Supervisor Details: The full name and contact details of the academic supervisor.

It is critical that all submitted information is complete and clear. Missing documents or unclear information can lead to disqualification.

How to Submit Your Application

Applications for the SANS Killie Campbell Bursary can be submitted through three methods: email, post, or hand delivery. Applicants should choose only one method to avoid duplicate submissions.

Applying by Email

To apply via email, send your application to [email protected]. The subject line of your email should be “SANS Bursary 2026.” Ensure that all required supporting documents are attached to the email.

Applying by Post or Hand Delivery

Applications can also be sent to:

The Secretary
South African National Society
31 St. Andrews Drive
Durban North
Durban
4051

It is important to submit your application only once, using your preferred method.

Application Closing Date

The deadline for submitting applications for the SANS Killie Campbell Bursary is 31 July 2026. Applications received after this date will not be considered. It is advisable for applicants to submit their applications well before the closing date to ensure all necessary documents are received on time and to avoid any last-minute issues.

Conclusion

The SANS Killie Campbell Bursary Programme represents a significant opportunity for postgraduate history students in South Africa. By offering financial support and encouraging research into South African and KwaZulu-Natal history, SANS plays a vital role in advancing historical scholarship. Students who meet the eligibility criteria and have a passion for historical research are strongly encouraged to apply before the 31 July 2026 deadline. This bursary can be a stepping stone to a successful academic career and a deeper understanding of the past.

Frequently Asked Questions