Tom Queba and Pegasys Scholarships for Social Change 2027

The Tom Queba and Pegasys Scholarships for Social Change offer a valuable opportunity for students in South Africa to pursue higher education while contributing to societal improvement. These scholarships are designed to support individuals who are passionate about driving positive change through their academic pursuits. The program focuses on fostering leadership and academic growth, aiming to empower scholars to make a real difference in their communities.

Understanding the Scholarship Program

The Canon Collins Trust, in collaboration with the Tom Queba Memorial Fund and Pegasys, is offering these scholarships for Honours and Masters degrees at South African universities. The program aims to fund students for up to two years, providing not only financial support but also chances to develop academic and leadership skills through organized events. A core requirement for all scholarship recipients is that their proposed study must directly benefit social and/or environmental development, with a particular focus on improving the lives of the poorest people in South Africa.

Areas of Focus

Scholarships are awarded for studies that contribute to social change within specific fields. These include:

• Justice: Pursuing studies that aim to reform legal systems, promote human rights, or address social inequalities.
• Education: Focusing on research or programs that improve educational access, quality, or outcomes for disadvantaged groups.
• Humanities and the Arts: Utilizing creative and critical thinking to explore social issues, promote cultural understanding, or advocate for social justice through artistic expression.
• Sciences and Applied Sciences: Applying scientific knowledge and technology to solve environmental problems, improve public health, or develop sustainable solutions for societal challenges.

Scholarship Benefits and Expectations

The scholarship package provides financial support, with the value set at R85,000 for 2026. This funding can cover up to two years of study. The program is flexible, supporting full-time, part-time, and distance learning options. Beyond financial aid, scholars are expected to actively participate in an annual conference and other smaller events organized throughout the year. This engagement is intended to help them build a network, share experiences, and contribute to the broader scholar community.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Tom Queba and Pegasys Scholarships, applicants must meet specific requirements:

• Nationality and Residency: Applicants must be Black or Coloured South African nationals residing in South Africa, as defined by South African BEE law.
• Age Limit: Candidates must be under 34 years of age at the start of their course.
• Academic Standing: Applicants should possess a strong first degree, with a minimum of a second-class, upper-division grade, or be on track to graduate in the year of application.
• Level of Study: The scholarship is for Honours or Masters level study at a South African university. Applicants must either be currently studying or applying to study at this level.

Application Process

Interested candidates must complete and submit a short online application form. The deadline for submissions is August 14, 2026, at 4:00 PM SAST. It is important to carefully review the application guidelines provided by the Canon Collins Trust to ensure all necessary information is included.

Conclusion

The Tom Queba and Pegasys Scholarships for Social Change represent a significant opportunity for South African students committed to making a positive impact. By supporting studies in critical areas like justice, education, humanities, arts, and sciences, the program aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders dedicated to building a more equitable and just society. Prospective applicants are encouraged to meet the eligibility criteria and submit their applications before the August deadline to be considered for this transformative scholarship.