South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC)

About SANPC

The South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC) is a state-owned company that manages the country's petroleum and gas interests. It was created by merging three subsidiaries of the Central Energy Fund: iGas, PetroSA and the Strategic Fuel Fund. Cabinet took the decision to merge them in June 2020. The goal was to rationalise state-owned enterprises and cut duplication.

The new company brings several functions under one roof. These include oversight of petroleum and gas resources, exploration and production rights, storage, and the state's strategic crude oil stockpile. In short, SANPC exists to strengthen South Africa's energy security and to lessen its reliance on imported fuel. The company formally launched in 2025.

How SANPC supports students

SANPC runs a bursary scheme for persons with disabilities. It forms part of the company's commitment to skills development and socio-economic transformation. Many disabled South Africans struggle to find funding, so a dedicated scheme fills a real gap.

The bursary is open to students pursuing a diploma, advanced diploma, degree or honours qualification. Importantly, it is not limited to energy or engineering. Reports on the programme say that any field of study can qualify. Study may be full-time or part-time. As a result, working students and those who need a flexible pace can also apply.

The funding is described as a full-cost award for the essentials of study. According to published listings, it covers tuition fees and textbooks. Living costs such as accommodation and transport are not mentioned, so applicants should plan for those separately or ask about them.

What to know before applying

To apply, you must be a South African citizen living with a disability. You must also be studying, or planning to study, towards a qualification at diploma level or higher. Expect to supply proof of disability, your ID, academic results and proof of registration or acceptance.

Opening and closing dates change from year to year, and SANPC has not published a fixed calendar that we could confirm. Likewise, any work-back or service conditions are unconfirmed. Check the terms in the application form before you accept an award.

The SANPC website lists a careers page and a contact number for enquiries. Because the company is still new, its public information is limited. Therefore, contact SANPC directly through its official site to confirm whether applications are open and which documents you need. Apply early, and keep copies of everything you submit.

Think about support on campus too. Many universities have disability units that can arrange extra time in tests, accessible venues and assistive technology. Contact the unit at your institution early. A bursary pays for fees and books, while the campus unit helps you get the practical help you need to finish your qualification on time.