MTN

About MTN

MTN is one of the largest telecommunications companies in South Africa. It provides mobile voice, data and digital services to tens of millions of customers locally. It is also part of the wider MTN Group, which operates across Africa and the Middle East. The South African head office is the MTN Innovation Centre in Fairland, Randburg.

Running networks and digital platforms at this scale takes skilled people. Engineers, software developers, finance specialists and marketers all keep the business moving. For that reason, MTN invests in its own pipeline of young talent through its bursary programme.

How MTN supports students

The MTN bursary targets students in business and technology fields. Past intakes have included computer science, computer applications, computer engineering, software development, information systems, light current engineering, human resources and marketing. A separate accounting bursary supports students on the chartered accountant route, linked to the MTN Graduate Development Programme.

The company frames the programme as a way to build digital skills and develop future leaders. In addition to study costs, bursars may benefit from mentoring, leadership training and vacation work. Therefore, the programme aims to prepare students for real roles rather than fund study in isolation.

MTN also offers learnerships, which suit people who want structured workplace training. These are separate from the bursary and have their own entry rules.

What to know before applying

Applicants must be South African citizens with a matric certificate. They must be studying, or planning to study, in a qualifying field at a recognised tertiary institution. A good academic record is essential. Furthermore, MTN gives preference to previously disadvantaged students.

The application pack usually asks for a certified copy of your ID, your matric certificate and academic transcripts. You also need proof of enrolment, household income documents, a CV and a motivational letter. Applications have generally been sent to the MTN bursary email address or posted to the bursary administrator. The closing date has historically been 31 May, but it can change, so check the official MTN website first.

Work-back terms are not clearly published in public sources. Some sources suggest successful bursars may be asked to work for MTN for a period matching their funding, while others mention no obligation. Therefore, read your bursary contract carefully before you sign it. The fields funded and the number of awards also vary by year, so confirm the latest details directly with MTN.

If you are still in matric, start preparing early. Strong marks in mathematics and information technology subjects help with the technology fields. Keep certified copies ready, and apply well before the deadline, because MTN states that late submissions are not considered.