The South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) invites eligible postgraduate students to apply for its prestigious scholarship programme for the 2025–2027 academic cycle. This funding opportunity is aimed at advancing research and development in the arts, culture, and heritage sectors of South Africa.Application Deadline:

31 August 2025 at 12:00 PM (SAST)

Funding Available:
A financial contribution of up to R40,000 will be awarded to successful applicants. The funding is intended to assist with tuition fees, research costs, and related postgraduate study expenses.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be a South African citizen

• Must be enrolled or planning to enrol in a public South African university

• Must be pursuing postgraduate studies (Honours, Master’s, or PhD level)

• Fields of study must relate to arts, culture, heritage, or the creative industries

Application Link:
Submit your application via the SACO website:
www.southafricanculturalobservatory.org.za

Supporting Partners:

• Department of Sport, Arts and Culture

• Nelson Mandela University

• Rhodes University

• University of KwaZulu-Natal

Tips for a Strong SACO Scholarship Application

1. Highlight Cultural Relevance:
   Clearly articulate how your research contributes to the South African cultural and creative economy.

2. Strong Academic Background:
   Attach certified academic transcripts and show consistent academic performance.

3. Detailed Research Proposal:
   Provide a clear, focused, and well-structured research proposal that aligns with SACO’s mission and focus areas.

4. Motivation Letter:
   Your personal motivation statement should reflect passion for cultural research and its impact on local communities or national policy.

5. Recommendation Letters:
   Secure strong references from lecturers or supervisors familiar with your work ethic and academic potential.

6. Proof of Registration:
   Include a letter or document from your university confirming your current or intended registration for 2025.

About SACO:
The South African Cultural Observatory is a national research project aimed at supporting the development of the cultural and creative industries. It operates under the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, with a strong focus on research, data analysis, and cultural policy development.

For more information, visit the SACO website or email the contact details provided in the scholarship section.