Dear Staff and Students

The Research Division is thrilled to announce the Innovation Challenge 2025, an incredible opportunity for student innovators and entrepreneurs to showcase their talents and bring their ideas to life. This challenge is specifically designed to uncover and nurture tech-based solutions that have the potential to address real-world challenges and drive meaningful change. Whether you have a start-up idea in its early stages or a project that you’ve been developing for some time, this is your chance to put your innovation on the map. We are looking for creative, impactful solutions that can make a difference in areas such as health, education, sustainability, and beyond. By participating in this challenge, you not only stand a chance to win significant cash prizes but also to gain recognition and support from industry experts and peers. Innovation is at the heart of progress, and we believe that students have the vision and ingenuity to lead the way in creating the future. So, if you’re passionate about solving problems and making a lasting impact, we encourage you to take part in this exciting journey.

Competition Highlights:

• 1st Prize: R30,000
• 2nd Prize: R20,000
• 3rd Prize: R15,000

If you are passionate about innovation and have a solution that can address today’s pressing challenges, this is your moment to shine. The competition is open to all students who are eager to showcase their ideas and contribute to technological advancements.

How to apply

Submit your entry by filling out the application form via the following link: https://forms.gle/4Sh6z1mSGpzHJNVT6 on or before 5 September 2025. For any further queries, please contact Ms. Zinhle Khumalo at khumaloZ1@ukzn.ac.za  or call Ext: 031 260 2458.