The Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship Programme 2026 is not merely a financial award. It is a deeply values-driven initiative created to honour the life, courage, and sacrifice of Bheki Mlangeni, a young lawyer who was assassinated for his commitment to justice during South Africa’s transition to democracy.Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship Programme 2026
Designed for financially disadvantaged Black final-year LLB students, this scholarship recognises those who view the law not simply as a profession, but as a public responsibility. It is awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence, ethical integrity, and an unwavering commitment to constitutionalism, labour rights, administrative justice, and social transformation.
For the right candidate, this programme can shape an entire legal career — opening doors to public interest law, advocacy, and impact-driven leadership within South Africa’s legal system.
Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship Programme 2026: Quick Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship Programme |
| Academic Year | 2026 |
| Field of Study | LLB (Final Year Only) |
| Target Group | Black, financially disadvantaged South African students |
| Key Law Focus Areas | Constitutional Law, Labour Law, Administrative Law |
| Eligible Universities | University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), University of the Western Cape (UWC) |
| Sponsor | Cheadle Thompson & Haysom (CTH) |
| Closing Date | End of February 2026 |
| Additional Benefit | Possible vacation work programme |
Who Was Bheki Mlangeni? Understanding the Legacy
Bheki Mlangeni was a promising young lawyer and an articled clerk at Cheadle Thompson & Haysom, one of South Africa’s most respected public interest law firms. His assassination in 1993 was a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who challenged injustice during the struggle for democracy.
The scholarship established in his name is intended to:
- Preserve his legacy
- Honour the sacrifices made for constitutional democracy
- Inspire a new generation of lawyers committed to justice, accountability, and equality
This programme is not about prestige alone — it is about moral courage, responsibility, and service.
The Purpose of the Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship
The scholarship exists to advance both legal excellence and ethical leadership. Its purpose is to:
- Honour the life and legacy of Bheki Mlangeni
- Support transformation within the South African legal profession
- Promote constitutional values and democratic accountability
- Encourage careers in public interest and human rights law
- Support students who will use law as a tool for social justice
Selection is based not only on academic results, but on character, purpose, and demonstrated commitment to justice.
About the Sponsor: Cheadle Thompson & Haysom (CTH)
Cheadle Thompson & Haysom is widely recognised as one of South Africa’s leading public interest law firms. Since the end of apartheid, the firm has played a significant role in shaping South African law through its work in:
- Constitutional litigation
- Labour law reform
- Administrative law
- Human rights advocacy
- Democratic governance
The firm’s commitment to accessibility, ethical practice, and transformation is deeply reflected in the continued funding of the Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship Programme.
Who Should Apply? Eligibility Requirements for 2026
To qualify for the Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship Programme 2026, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be Black and financially disadvantaged
- Be a final-year LLB student in 2026
- Be registered at:
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), or
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Show academic strength in Constitutional Law, Labour Law, or Administrative Law
- Demonstrate a clear commitment to social justice and public interest law
This scholarship is intended for students who view the law as a calling, not merely a career.
Required Documents: What Your Application Must Include
Incomplete applications are automatically disqualified. Ensure your submission includes all of the following:
- Clearly stated name of the scholarship
- Motivational letter explaining why you deserve the scholarship
- Detailed CV (must include your student number)
- Certified copy of academic transcript
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Two letters of reference
- Contactable telephone number(s)
Important:
All certifications must be recent, legible, and valid.
How to Apply: Submission Details by University
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Application Method: Email submission
- University Coordinator: Wanda Ndlozi
- Email Address: wanda.ndlozi@wits.ac.za
- Closing Date: End of February 2026
University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Application Method: Email submission
- University Coordinator: Vernon Johannes
- Email Address: vjohannes@uwc.ac.za
- Closing Date: End of February 2026
Late applications will not be considered under any circumstances.
Terms and Conditions You Must Know
- The scholarship is awarded annually
- Only one student is selected each year
- The recipient may be required to participate in a CTH vacation work programme
- No feedback will be provided to unsuccessful applicants
- The selection panel’s decision is final
How Edupstairs Helps You Compete Successfully
At Edupstairs, the focus is not only on sharing opportunities — but on helping students win them.
Successful applicants usually:
- Clearly link academic interests to social justice
- Demonstrate knowledge of Bheki Mlangeni’s legacy
- Write authentic, personal motivational letters
- Choose referees who genuinely understand their values
- Submit applications early to avoid technical issues
This scholarship prioritises values and integrity just as much as academic performance.
Career Opportunities After Receiving the Scholarship
Winning the Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship can place you on a powerful career path, including opportunities in:
- Public interest law firms
- Articles of clerkship
- Constitutional litigation
- Labour law practice
- Administrative law advocacy
- Human rights organisations and NGOs
- Policy advisory and legislative roles
- Judicial clerkships
- LLM programmes in public or constitutional law
This scholarship signals to the legal profession that you are committed to impact-driven legal practice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Bheki Mlangeni award a bursary or a scholarship?
It is a scholarship, awarded based on merit, values, and financial need.
Can first- or second-year LLB students apply?
No. Only final-year LLB students are eligible.
Is the scholarship open to students at other universities?
No. Applications are limited to Wits and UWC.
Does the scholarship cover all study costs?
The value varies annually. Applicants should confirm details with their university coordinator.
Is vacation work compulsory?
If selected, participation in vacation work at CTH may be required.
What is the final closing date?
28 February 2026
Final Thoughts: A Scholarship Rooted in Purpose
The Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship Programme 2026 stands as a reminder that the law is not neutral — it is a tool that can either entrench inequality or dismantle it. This opportunity is reserved for students prepared to carry forward a legacy of courage, ethical practice, and constitutional commitment.
For those who qualify, this is more than funding. It is an invitation to serve, transform, and lead within South Africa’s legal future.
Thato Sabethwa is a passionate education advocate and digital content creator dedicated to helping young South Africans access valuable career and learning opportunities. With a strong belief in the power of skills development, Thato writes informative articles about learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job readiness. Through OnlineLearnership.co.za, Thato aims to guide students and job seekers toward the right opportunities that can shape their future. Her content focuses on practical advice, career tips, and reliable updates to empower readers to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
