Unlocking Potential: The Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2026 Competition
An Introduction to the Competition
Grade 10 and 11 learners in South Africa are invited to participate in the 2026 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow (SFT) competition, which is open for entries until March 6. This year is particularly notable as it includes quintile 5 public schools, enhancing inclusivity and representation across the country. This initiative acts as more than just a competition; it serves as a transformative experience that nurtures personal growth and career aspirations among South Africa’s youth.
A Platform for Innovation and Problem Solving
The SFT competition, launched in South Africa in 2023, focuses on instilling innovative thinking and problem-solving skills in Generation Z. It encourages participants to devise sustainable solutions via STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Learners are motivated to contribute to community challenges by using STEM principles, improving their analytical skills, and benefiting from professional guidance by Samsung employees.
Driving Youth-Led Innovation
The driving force behind the SFT competition is to bridge skills gaps and ignite youth-led innovation. It aims to shift the perspective of young South Africans from mere job seekers to proactive solution creators. This initiative aligns with a global vision for a future where youth actively contribute to inclusive growth and sustainable development.
2026 Competition Themes
This year’s competition centers around two significant themes: Social Change Through Sports and Technology, and Environmental Sustainability via Technology.
Social Change Through Sports and Technology examines sports not just as a recreational activity, but as a powerful unifying force capable of driving social change. The combination of sports and technology can enhance youth development, promote health, and strengthen community ties. Young innovators are encouraged to leverage digital platforms and smart solutions to increase access to sports and improve community wellness.
On the other hand, the Environmental Sustainability via Technology theme addresses urgent challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and waste management. This theme invites participants to create tech-driven solutions that safeguard natural resources and advocate for renewable energy. It symbolizes a shift towards responsible innovation that prioritizes long-term sustainability.
Empowering Learners through Mentorship
According to Lefa Makgato, the corporate social responsibility manager for Samsung Electronics in South Africa, the expansion of the SFT competition aims to connect learners with industry leaders. Through mentorship, students gain exposure and networking opportunities that aid their transition into tertiary education. Engaging with themes that resonate with current societal needs not only builds critical skills for the Fourth Industrial Revolution but also profoundly impacts the lives of participants.
Prizes and Future Opportunities
Participants in the competition have the chance to win exciting prizes, including R100,000 worth of STEM equipment for their school for the first prize, along with R50,000 and R30,000 for second and third prizes, respectively. Additionally, the top three teams will receive Samsung devices to further develop their projects.
However, Makgato emphasizes that the competition transcends the aspect of winning; it’s about the personal and educational growth experienced along the journey. Past participants have successfully transitioned into tertiary education, pursuing degrees that align with the STEM skills they developed throughout the program.
Aligning with National Education Goals
The SFT competition is strategically aligned with South Africa’s educational goals, notably those focused on enhancing STEM learning and ensuring equitable access to opportunities. Strengthening STEM education is a cornerstone of the national education policy, and the competition provides learners with practical, hands-on experience that supports this priority.
Terence Khala, acting director for communications and research at the Department of Basic Education, has welcomed the ongoing expansion of the Samsung SFT program. He advocates for experiential competitions that promote problem-solving, design thinking, and applied learning competencies essential for participating in a rapidly changing economy.
Entry Requirements
Interested teams must comply with specific criteria to enter the competition:
- Candidates must be South African citizens.
- Written consent from each candidate’s parent or legal guardian is required.
- Participants must be enrolled as learners at a public school throughout the competition.
- Each team may consist of a maximum of five students from grades 10 to 11.
- Public schools are permitted to submit only one team.
How to Get More Information
For more details about the competition, participants can visit the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow website or contact Samsung through email at ssasft@samsung.com. For inquiries, individuals can also call 011 549 1646 or 060 554 8606.
This article was sponsored by Samsung.