South Africa has a rich history which is also very diverse, making it very important to preserve it for future generations. Without it, the countr has no identity it pride itself with among other nations of the world. The South African National Society (SANS) is dedicated to promote appreciation for the country’s cultural, natural, and historical heritage. It continues to support this mission through initiatives like the Killie Campbell Bursary programme. The bursary is a prestigious financial support offered to postgraduate students who wish to explore and document the historical narratives of South Africa—particularly those connected to KwaZulu-Natal.
What Is the SANS Killie Campbell Bursary?
The Killie Campbell Bursary is a financial support scheme which was established to honour Dr Killie Campbell. Dr Campbell is a passionate historian and collector whose contributions to South African historical preservation continue to influence research today. Her collection popularly known as Africana collection is now housed at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and it remains a vital resource for scholars.
The bursary scheme is administered by the South African National Society and provides support to students pursuing postgraduate studies in History. It is recommended that the preference for research topics focuses on KwaZulu-Natal or South African history more broadly. The bursary demonstrates SANS’s commitment to the cultivation of public interest in the nation’s heritage while supporting academic exploration in aliegned field of study.
Study Fields Covered
This bursary targets postgraduate students pursuing Honours, Master’s, or Doctoral students whose dissertation or thesis focuses on South African history. Preference is given to KwaZulu-Natal-related research because that is aligned with the legacy of Dr Killie Campbell. This does not mean that other historical topics relevant to the country will not be considered.
Bursary Value and Payment Structure
The total amount awarded is at the discretion of the SANS bursary committee. The 2026 bursary amount is R25 000 and will be paid in two equal tranches of R12 500:
- The first payment will be made during the September 2025 SA National Society monthly meeting.
- The second payment will follow upon receipt of a satisfactory progress report from the student’s academic supervisor, submitted to the President of the Society.
This structure ensures continued academic engagement and accountability throughout the research process.
Bursary Selection Process
Students who submit applications for funding may be invited to an interview with the bursary selection committee. The interview could be held in person or virtually (via Zoom or similar platforms). The selection process focuses on the following:
- Academic merit
- Relevance and quality of the proposed research topic
- The applicant’s commitment to contributing to the historical record of South Africa
Successful applicants will be expected to:
- Present a brief overview of their research topic at a SANS monthly meeting
- Submit a digital copy of their completed dissertation for possible publication on the SANS website
Please note: The selection committee reserves the right not to award the bursary if no suitable candidate is identified.
Who Can Apply?
If you wish to apply for the Killie Campbell Bursary for 2026 academic year, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be registered for a postgraduate qualification (Honours, Master’s, or Doctorate) in History
- Be conducting research on South African history, preferably with a focus on KwaZulu-Natal
- Be enrolled at a recognised and accredited university in South Africa
How to Apply?
Students who wish to apply must submit the following documents by email:
- Personal Details – Full name, gender, email address, and phone number
- Academic & Personal Background – A short biography highlighting academic achievements and interests
- Research Topic – A clear outline of the dissertation or thesis topic and area of focus
- Study Level – Indicate whether the qualification is Honours, Master’s, or Doctorate
- Institution Details – Name of the institution, faculty, and proof of registration/payment
- Supervisor Details – Full name and contact information of academic supervisor
Application Address:
- Email address: [email protected]
- Delivery:
The Secretary, South African National Society
31 St. Andrews Drive, Durban North, Durban, 4051
Closing Date
The closing date for the SANS Killie Campbell Bursary application is 31 July 2025 – Late applications will qualify, remember to apply before the deadline.
Also see: Bursaries Closing In July 2025
Bursary Contact Information
If you run into problems while trying to apply, please contact the bursary provider as follows:
- Contact Person: Memory Coutts (Secretary)
- Email: [email protected]
The SANS Killie Campbell Bursary is an opportunity more than just financial assistance—it contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s historical legacy. If you’re a passionate historian looking to explore the stories that shape our past and future, this bursary could be your gateway to making an impact.
You amy also want to view other Postgraduate Bursaries and Scholarships open for 2026 academic year. Here are some: