South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Bursary 2026

Family Pleads for Help to Bring Home Remains of Slain E-Hailing Driver

The family of 27-year-old Mthokozisi Mvelase, an e-hailing driver brutally killed in an arson attack at Maponya Mall in Soweto, is begging for assistance to return his remains to their home in Nhlungwane, Ulundi, northern KwaZulu-Natal. Mthokozisi, an only child, had just started a job with an e-hailing company when he was shot and set ablaze inside his vehicle during a clash between taxi and e-hailing operators. His family, devastated by the loss, describes him as a humble, ambitious young man who moved to Johannesburg to improve his and his sick mother’s life.

His uncle, Mlamuli Khuzwayo, shared the family’s anguish, revealing they were told Mthokozisi was burned to ashes, with only one bone recovered for burial. “We have no money for a funeral or to fetch his remains from Johannesburg,” he said, adding, “Maybe we would have found closure if they spared his body after shooting him.” The family’s focus is on bringing him home, but their financial struggle deepens their grief, leaving them in disbelief. His aunt, Ntombenhle, echoed this, recalling his Monday call about plans to build his mother a proper house, a dream now lost.

Mlamuli demands justice, urging the government and police to swiftly arrest the attackers and address such violence. The murder has sparked protests at Maponya Mall, with the family’s plea for help highlighting their desperation. A family member asked, “Why would they burn his body after killing him?” as they grapple with the brutality. The e-hailing industry also calls for stronger regulations to protect drivers and commuters. With the family’s attention fixed on repatriating Mthokozisi’s remains, the lack of funds and slow police action raise doubts about whether justice or closure will come soon.

South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Bursary 2026

About the Bursary Provider – SACAA

Established in 1998, the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) is a public entity under the Department of Transport (DoT). As the national aviation authority, SACAA oversees civil aviation operations and investigates aviation accidents and incidents to ensure safety and compliance across South Africa’s aviation sector.

About the SACAA Bursary Programme – Fields Covered

The SACAA invites students to apply for its bursary programme for the 2026 academic year. Bursaries are available for the following fields:

  • Aeronautical Engineering
  • Aircraft Maintenance Engineering
  • Cadet Pilot Training: Fixed Wing Pilot Training
  • Cadet Pilot Training: Helicopter Pilot Training

Bursary Coverage

The bursary provides comprehensive financial support, including:

  • Cadet Pilot Training: Full tuition fees, flight training, examination fees, and mentorship from experienced pilots and aviation professionals.
  • Aircraft Maintenance Engineering: Full tuition fees, registration fees, tools, textbooks, learning materials, accommodation, stipend, practical training, and mentorship with certified aviation engineers.
  • Aeronautical Engineering: Full tuition fees, registration fees, textbooks, study materials, accommodation, and a stipend.

Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by SACAA. If you do not receive feedback, consider your application unsuccessful.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

Cadet Pilot Training

  • South African citizen
  • Aged 18 to 35 years
  • Currently in Matric or have completed Matric
  • Minimum Level 6 or 7 in Pure Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric

  • Studying or intending to study towards a Cadet Pilot qualification (Fixed Wing or Helicopter Pilot Training)
  • Proven financial need
  • Passion for aviation, engineering, and innovation
  • Strong work ethic, high discipline, dedication, and motivation

Aircraft Maintenance Engineering

  • South African citizen
  • Aged 18 to 35 years
  • Currently in Matric or have completed Matric
  • Minimum Level 6 or 7 in Pure Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric
  • Studying or intending to study towards an Aircraft Maintenance Engineering qualification

  • Accepted or provisionally accepted at a recognised, accredited South African institution
  • Strong academic record
  • Proven financial need
  • Passion for engineering, innovation, and technical work

Aeronautical Engineering

  • South African citizen
  • Aged 18 to 35 years
  • Currently in Matric or have completed Matric
  • Minimum Level 6 or 7 in Pure Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric
  • Studying or intending to study towards an Aeronautical Engineering qualification
  • Accepted or provisionally accepted at a recognised, accredited South African institution
  • Strong academic record
  • Proven financial need
  • Passion for engineering and innovation

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via the SACAA Bursary Application 2026.

Required Documents (certified copies; incomplete applications may be disqualified):

  • South African ID document
  • Matric latest results (if currently in Matric) or Matric certificate (if completed)
  • Latest academic results (on institution letterhead, if currently studying)
  • Proof of parents’ or guardians’ income (latest payslips if employed, affidavit if unemployed)
  • Motivational letter supporting your application

Closing Date

30 September 2025 (12:00 midnight)
Applications submitted after this date will not be considered. Apply early to ensure your application is reviewed.

Contact Information

For queries, contact the SACAA Human Resources office:

Take flight with your aviation career through the SACAA Bursary Programme!

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