Deadline: 15-Sep-2026
The Achmat Dangor Literary Prize is now open for applications from young, previously disadvantaged writers seeking financial support to pursue a Master of Arts (MA) in Creative Writing at Wits University. Established through the Achmat Dangor Legacy Project, the prize celebrates the literary and activist legacy of Achmat Dangor while helping develop the next generation of African writers.
Prize Objectives
The Achmat Dangor Literary Prize aims to nurture emerging literary talent by supporting writers who demonstrate creative potential and a commitment to storytelling rooted in South African experiences.
The prize supports:
- Poetry
- Fiction
- Scriptwriting
- Creative nonfiction
- Creative writing education and professional development
- Emerging African literary voices
The initiative seeks to preserve Achmat Dangor’s literary legacy while creating opportunities for promising writers to strengthen their craft through postgraduate study.
Funding Information
The prize provides financial support to pursue an MA in Creative Writing at Wits University.
Key funding details include:
- Financial support for MA in Creative Writing studies.
- Award presented every two years.
- Expected to support at least four students over the next eight years through the Achmat Dangor Legacy Project.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a young, previously disadvantaged writer.
- Be a South African citizen or a citizen of another African country residing in South Africa.
- Produce writing that reflects South African experiences, themes, voices, or the country’s place in the world.
- Have completed or currently be enrolled in an Honours degree, or possess equivalent writing or publishing experience.
- Demonstrate strong creative writing potential.
Eligible Writing Genres
Applicants may submit work in one or more of the following genres:
- Poetry
- Fiction
- Scriptwriting
- Creative nonfiction
Application Requirements
Applications must include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Cover letter explaining:
- Writing interests.
- Publishing history.
- Motivation for applying.
- Challenges faced as a writer.
- Proposed MA Creative Writing project.
- Awards or recognitions received.
- Whether the applicant wishes to be considered for MA admission if not selected for the prize.
- Writing portfolio.
- At least 50% of the submitted writing must be unpublished.
Selection Process
Applications will be assessed by:
- The Wits Creative Writing Department.
- A dedicated selection committee.
The evaluation process is designed to ensure fairness, transparency, and recognition of literary merit.
The successful recipient will be announced in mid to late October 2026 during a ceremony celebrating Achmat Dangor’s birthday month.
Recipient Responsibilities
Successful recipients are expected to:
- Attend the official award ceremony.
- Pursue the MA in Creative Writing at Wits University.
- Submit one reflective piece after receiving the prize.
- Submit a second reflective piece upon successful completion of the MA programme.
Why This Prize Matters
The Achmat Dangor Literary Prize provides more than financial assistance. It helps emerging writers gain access to postgraduate creative writing education while honoring one of South Africa’s most influential literary voices. By investing in new talent, the programme contributes to the growth of diverse African literature and supports stories that reflect South Africa’s rich cultural and social landscape.
Tips for a Strong Application
To improve your chances of success:
- Showcase an original and authentic writing voice.
- Demonstrate how your work connects with South African themes or experiences.
- Clearly explain your motivation for pursuing an MA in Creative Writing.
- Present a well-developed and realistic proposed writing project.
- Carefully proofread your portfolio and supporting documents.
- Ensure at least half of your submitted work is unpublished.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply for the Achmat Dangor Literary Prize?
Young, previously disadvantaged writers who are South African citizens or citizens of other African countries residing in South Africa and who meet the academic or equivalent writing experience requirements.
What does the prize cover?
The prize provides financial support to undertake an MA in Creative Writing at Wits University.
Which writing genres are accepted?
Poetry, fiction, scriptwriting, and creative nonfiction.
Do I need an Honours degree to apply?
Applicants should have completed or be enrolled in an Honours degree. Equivalent writing or publishing experience may also satisfy the eligibility requirements.
Can published writers apply?
Yes. However, at least 50% of the submitted writing portfolio must consist of unpublished work.
How are applications evaluated?
Applications are reviewed by the Wits Creative Writing Department and a dedicated selection committee based on the quality of the writing, applicant potential, and overall suitability for the programme.
When will successful applicants be announced?
The selected recipient is expected to be announced in mid to late October 2026 during the Achmat Dangor Legacy Project award ceremony.
Conclusion
The Achmat Dangor Literary Prize offers an exceptional opportunity for emerging writers to develop their creative talent through postgraduate study while honoring the legacy of one of South Africa’s most celebrated literary figures. Writers with strong creative potential and a commitment to telling meaningful stories are encouraged to prepare a compelling application and submit all required documents before the deadline.
For more information, visit Wits University.