Public schools across South Africa are invited to apply for the 2026 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow (SFT) competition – a global STEM initiative empowering Grade 10 and 11 learners to develop innovative solutions to real-world community challenges. Applications are officially open and close on 06 March 2026.

Launched locally in 2023, the programme has already begun reshaping how young South Africans engage with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. In 2026, the competition expands significantly: it is now open to all public schools, including quintile 5 institutions, making it more inclusive and nationally representative than ever before.

What is Samsung Solve for Tomorrow?

Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is a global youth innovation competition designed to bridge skills gaps, encourage youth-led innovation, and strengthen STEM capability within public education systems. It aligns closely with South Africa’s focus on preparing learners for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and future-facing industries.

The initiative aims to cultivate a generation that sees itself not merely as job seekers, but as solution creators contributing to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.

Participants work in teams to design STEM-based solutions that address pressing social or environmental challenges in their communities. Throughout the competition, learners receive mentorship from industry professionals and gain exposure to innovation frameworks, design thinking and applied problem-solving methodologies.

2026 Competition Themes

This year’s competition centres around two critical national priorities:

1. Social Change Through Sports and Technology

South Africa recognises sport as a powerful social unifier. This theme encourages learners to combine digital platforms, data analytics and smart technologies with sport to:

• Improve access to sporting opportunities
• Promote youth development and wellness
• Strengthen community cohesion
• Enhance safety and inclusivity

The focus is on amplifying sport’s social impact beyond the field using technology as an enabler.

2. Environmental Sustainability via Technology

Environmental challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, waste management and energy access remain urgent in South Africa. Learners are invited to develop technology-driven solutions that:

• Protect natural resources
• Promote renewable energy
• Improve waste and water management
• Encourage sustainable living

This theme reinforces responsible innovation — using technology not simply for convenience, but to secure long-term environmental resilience.

Alignment with National Education Priorities

The competition aligns closely with the strategic goals of the Department of Basic Education (DBE), particularly in strengthening STEM education, critical thinking, and equitable access to opportunities.

Terence Khala, Acting Director for Communications and Research at the DBE, noted that experiential competitions such as Solve for Tomorrow strengthen applied learning, design thinking and innovation capability — essential competencies for participation in South Africa’s digital, green and knowledge-based economies.

By offering practical, hands-on STEM engagement, the programme directly supports national education transformation goals and contributes to building stronger STEM capacity within public schools.

Prizes and Opportunities

Beyond skill development and mentorship, participating schools stand a chance to win substantial prizes:

• 1st Prize: R100,000 worth of STEM equipment for the winning school
• 2nd Prize: R50,000 worth of STEM equipment
• 3rd Prize: R30,000 worth of STEM equipment

Additionally, learners on the top three teams receive Samsung devices to further develop their tech-for-good projects.

However, organisers emphasise that the competition’s greatest value lies in the journey. Many previous participants have transitioned into tertiary studies aligned with the STEM skills cultivated during the programme.

Entry Criteria

To qualify for the 2026 competition, teams must meet the following requirements:

• Learners must be South African citizens
• Written parental or legal guardian consent is required
• Participants must be enrolled in a public school for the duration of the competition
• Teams may consist of up to five Grade 10 or 11 learners
• Each public school may enter only one team

How to Apply

Public schools can access application forms online via the official Samsung website. Schools are required to register and submit their team’s proposal before the closing date of 06 March 2026.

For full details and registration, visit the official Samsung South Africa Solve for Tomorrow page or email ssasft@samsung.com for further assistance.

The 2026 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition represents more than a contest — it is a strategic platform for equipping South African learners with critical innovation skills. By combining STEM education with real-world problem solving, the initiative is helping shape a generation capable of building practical, sustainable solutions for their communities and the country at large.