“VUT recognised student creativity, science communication and the next generation of innovators during South Africa’s inaugural National Science Month.”
08 July 2026 | Story by: Tshepiso Kaibe | Picture:
3 minutes read time.
From designing the official National Science Month logo to debating the role of artificial intelligence, students and learners from across South Africa were recognised for their creativity, innovation and scientific thinking during National Science Month (NSM) celebrations at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Science and Technology Park in Sebokeng.
The activities formed part of South Africa’s inaugural NSM, officially launched at VUT Science Park on 4 July 2026 in partnership with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the National Research Foundation’s South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF-SAASTA).
The occasion marked a new chapter for science engagement in South Africa as National Science Week expanded into NSM, creating greater opportunities throughout July to inspire public interest in science, technology and innovation while encouraging more young people to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
The celebration showcased the creativity, innovation and scientific curiosity of young South Africans through two flagship initiatives: the NSM logo design competition and the NSM schools debate competition.
One of the highlights was the announcement of the logo competition winners. DSTI, together with NRF-SAASTA, invited students from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to create a visual identity that captures the purpose and vision of NSM.
Mr Wandile Mgaga from the University of Zululand (UniZul) claimed first place, followed by Ms Ndalamo Mochekwane from Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in second place and Ms Asekho Gadi from Buffalo City TVET College in third.
For Mgaga, the competition represented far more than a creative challenge.
“I saw the prize money, and my mother was sick. My mother has cancer, so I needed the money to pay for treatment,” he said.
He explained that his winning design symbolises science bringing people, nature and innovation together to build a better future for South Africa.
Reflecting on the journey, he encouraged aspiring designers to remain determined despite setbacks.
“I gave up multiple times while trying to make it. I had to learn software that looked like alien technology. However, because I knew the end goal, I kept going, and because of God, I actually won,” he said.
The day also recognised the country’s next generation of science communicators through the NSM schools debate competition, which engaged more than 30 schools from the Sedibeng and Tshwane regions over the past two months.
Learners debated the timely question, “What is the role of Artificial Intelligence?”, demonstrating critical thinking, research ability and confidence in discussing scientific issues shaping society.
Makgetse High School from Tshwane emerged as the overall winner, while Khanya Lesedi School of Specialisation from Sedibeng secured second place. The trophies presented to both schools were designed and 3D printed at the VUT Science and Technology Park, highlighting the University’s advanced manufacturing capabilities and commitment to innovation.
Speaking on behalf of the winning team, Ms Siphesihle Molokwe said months of preparation had made the victory especially meaningful.
“We are happy to be here. It was a long journey, but also a fruitful one. Our victory is a testament that hard work pays off,” she said.
As part of their prizes, both teams will travel to Cape Town to visit some of South Africa’s leading science institutions and gain greater exposure to the country’s research and innovation landscape. The winning team will also embark on an educational tour of the Eastern Cape, exploring science and technology sites across the province.
The recognition of student designers, young debaters and emerging innovators reflected the broader purpose of NSM: to celebrate scientific excellence while inspiring the next generation of South Africans to see science, technology and innovation as pathways to solving real-world challenges and shaping the country’s future.