ISPA Inspires Opens Applications for 2027 Educational Sponsorship Programme

1 September 2026

Aspiring ICT professionals across South Africa are invited to apply for the 2027 ISPA Inspires Educational Sponsorship Programme, with applications opening on 1 September 2026 and closing on  30 October 2026.

South Africa’s Internet Service Providers’ Association (ISPA), through the ISPA Inspires Educational Programme, is investing in the country’s next generation of digital talent.

Now entering its 6th year, the Programme offers eligible students the opportunity to receive financial support towards studies at universities, TVET colleges, technical colleges and other accredited institutions offering ICT-related qualifications and skills programmes in areas where critical skills shortages have been identified.

The ISPA Inspires Educational Sponsorship Programme is about more than funding a qualification. It is about opening doors to the internet industry and helping future ICT professionals build the knowledge, connections and experience they need to thrive.

In addition to the financial support, successful sponsorship recipients will have the opportunity to apply for the ISPA Fellowship Programme and participate in ISPA’s industry working groups.

Through these opportunities, students can gain valuable exposure to industry standards, emerging technologies, policy discussions and real world developments shaping South Africa’s internet sector.

They will also have the chance to connect with experienced professionals from across the industry, gaining practical insight and building networks alongside their academic studies.

“South Africa’s digital future depends on the talent, innovation and diversity we nurture today,” says Aurora Vani, Chairperson of ISPA’s Social Development Working Group.

“Through ISPA Inspires, we are creating opportunities for talented young people to develop the skills and confidence they need to make a meaningful impact on our ICT industry and the country’s digital economy.  We want to  encourage eligible students from across South Africa to step forward, seize this opportunity and help shape the digital future of our country.”

Driven by ISPA’s Social Development Working Group, the ISPA Inspires Educational Sponsorship Programme forms part of the Association’s commitment to skills development and expanding access to educational opportunities in South Africa’s rapidly evolving internet and technology sectors.

Applicants are encouraged to visit the ISPA Inspires website to learn more about the programme and complete the online application process.

Who should apply?

Applicants must be:

• South African citizens.

• Current or prospective undergraduate students intending to study at a South African university, TVET college, registered private college, or other registered higher education institution.

• Enrolled in, or planning to enrol in, an ICT-related field of study.

• Committed to pursuing a career within the ICT sector.

Preference will be given to historically disadvantaged individuals.

Please note: Postgraduate students and applicants already receiving funding through another bursary or scholarship are not eligible to apply.

Previous employment or experience in the information technology industry is not required.

For more information and to apply, visit www.ispa.org.za/inspires.

Follow ISPA on X and Linkedin for updates.