South Africa’s film and television industry is looking outwards, and offering a crucial leg-up to aspiring creatives. Applications are now open for the 2026 National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) Bursary Programme, designed to support South African citizens and permanent residents pursuing postgraduate studies in film and television abroad. This isn’t just about individual advancement; it’s a strategic investment in building a globally competitive South African film sector.
- The NFVF bursary programme aims to upskill South African film and television professionals for international recognition.
- Funding is specifically for courses *not* available within South African tertiary institutions, highlighting a gap in local offerings.
- The application deadline is 09 March 2026 at 17h00 (CAT), so aspiring filmmakers need to get their applications in order, and quickly.
The NFVF, an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, is clearly signaling its intent to move beyond simply funding production. This bursary programme is about long-term capacity building. By supporting postgraduate study overseas, the NFVF is acknowledging the need to access specialized knowledge and training currently unavailable locally. It’s a pragmatic approach, recognizing that a thriving film industry requires a highly skilled workforce exposed to international best practices.
The stipulations are fairly straightforward: applicants need a good academic record, demonstrate financial need, and have already been accepted into a full-time postgraduate program with a commencement date in September/October 2026. Notably, courses in live performance and acting are excluded – a detail that likely reflects a prioritization of technical and production skills over performance-based training within the NFVF’s current strategic framework. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered, and applicants are responsible for keeping their contact details updated.
This initiative is a smart move for the NFVF. It’s not just about the filmmakers who benefit directly; it’s about the ripple effect of bringing internationally trained talent back into the South African industry. The NFVF Funding Policy is available for review, and potential applicants are advised to consult it. For more information, visit the official NFVF webpage. Expect a highly competitive applicant pool – this bursary represents a significant opportunity for South African filmmakers looking to make their mark on the global stage.
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