The Canon Collins Educational Trust for Southern Africa (CCETSA) is a charity founded in 1981 by the Defence and Aid Fund for Southern Africa. Its object was to assist South African and Namibian refugee students to gain the higher education and training denied them under the apartheid system. Students attended institutions in the United Kingdom and in independent African states.

In 1990, following the release of Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners and the unbanning of anti-apartheid organisations, the CCETSA developed a scholarship programme in South Africa, predominantly at Historically Disadvantaged Institutions (HDIs). Individual students were supported mainly on science and education courses at a range of universities and technikons. The study programme in the United Kingdom was maintained.

Recognising that an educated and skilled workforce is a key component in achieving the national goals of reconstruction and development, the CCETSA continues to maintain a programme for post-graduate students from Southern Africa in both the United Kingdom and South Africa. Emphasis is on the education and training of skilled professionals who are committed to the development of their country.

Priorities are:

• to work in partnership with an increasing number of educational organisations in Southern Africa

• to expand the Trust's tertiary education programme for Southern African students

• to assist with the teaching of practical skills

• to reach out with educational support to the most disadvantaged sections of the community

• to help Historically Disadvantaged Institutions (HDI) through staff development programmes and scholarships

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