Jakes Gerwel Fellowship 2027 for Aspiring Teachers

The Jakes Gerwel Fellowship is a fully funded teaching bursary in South Africa designed to develop future high-impact teachers and education leaders.

The programme combines full university funding with mentorship, leadership training, and long-term support in the teaching profession.

It focuses on attracting top students who are passionate about improving education and willing to teach in South African schools.

It supports students through a bachelor’s degree followed by a Postgraduate Certificate in Education.

It also includes mentoring, leadership development, and coaching throughout the journey.

After qualification, fellows receive structured support during their first years of teaching.

The goal is to produce expert teachers who can lead change in South Africa’s education system.

Who qualifies for the Jakes Gerwel Fellowship 2027?

You must meet specific academic and personal criteria.

1. You must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
2. You must be under 23 years old for undergraduate entry or under 30 for PGCE entry.
3. You must be in Matric, on a gap year, or already studying at university.
4. You must achieve at least 65% average in your academic results.
5. You must show strong interest in teaching and education.
6. You must be willing to teach in a South African high school after qualifying.

What does the Jakes Gerwel Fellowship bursary cover?

The Fellowship provides full financial and academic support.

1. Full university tuition fees.
2. Accommodation and meals.
3. Books and study materials.
4. Monthly allowance.
5. Academic support and tutoring.
6. Leadership development programmes.
7. Personal coaching and mentorship from expert teachers.

You also receive continued professional support after qualifying as a teacher.

Which universities are part of the Jakes Gerwel Fellowship?

The Fellowship partners with top South African universities.

1. University of Cape Town.
2. University of Pretoria.
3. University of Johannesburg.
4. University of the Witwatersrand.
5. University of the Western Cape.
6. Stellenbosch University.

You must apply separately to one of these universities for admission.

How do you apply for the Jakes Gerwel Fellowship 2027?

You must apply online through the official portal. Follow these steps.

1. Complete the eligibility quiz on the official site.
2. Fill in the full online application form.
3. Submit all required documents.
4. Attend interviews if shortlisted.
5. Participate in the selection camp if selected.

Only complete applications are considered.

What documents are required for the application?

You must prepare all supporting documents before applying.

1. South African ID document.
2. Academic transcripts or latest results.
3. Proof of university application or acceptance.
4. Completed application form.
5. Any additional documents requested during the process.

Incomplete submissions are not accepted.

When is the Jakes Gerwel Fellowship 2027 closing date?

The closing date for 2027 has not yet been publicly fixed.

Previous application cycles have typically closed mid-year depending on the intake.

You must check the official portal regularly for confirmed 2027 deadlines.

Applying early increases your chances of completing all stages successfully.

How can you contact the Jakes Gerwel Fellowship?

You can contact the Fellowship directly for support.

1. Email: info@jgfellowship.org
2. Johannesburg: +27 10 900 1244
3. Cape Town: +27 21 180 4880
4. WhatsApp: 083 589 2933

You should always confirm application details directly with the Fellowship before applying.