Samsung South Africa, in partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE), has crowned the winners of the 2026 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow (SFT) competition, celebrating the creativity and innovation of public-school learners who are using Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to address real-world challenges in their communities.
The awards ceremony, held on 2 October 2026 at the Irene Country Hotel in Centurion, Gauteng, brought together learners, educators, government representatives, and industry leaders to celebrate the achievements of the competition’s Top 20 finalists. The event was attended by Samsung Africa President and CEO, Mr Simon Lee and Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube.
Cape Recife High School from the Eastern Cape Province was crowned the overall winner, receiving R100,000 towards STEM equipment for the school. The team developed an innovative solution that converts recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottles into 3D printer filament, which is used to produce affordable sports equipment. The project tackles plastic pollution whilst promoting access to sport in underserved communities.
Mbilwi Secondary School from the Limpopo Province secured second place and received R50,000 for its prototype, which explores how pollution and waste can be transformed into low-cost construction materials to support sustainable community development and address overcrowding.
Sekete IV Secondary School from the North West Province took third place, receiving R30,000 for a solution addressing food security by improving access to affordable, fresh produce in its local urban community.
The prize money will be used to purchase STEM equipment for the winning schools, whilst learners from the three winning teams each received a Samsung Galaxy smartphone to support their continued engagement with technology and innovation.
This year’s competition focused on Environmental Sustainability through Technology and Social Inclusion through Sports and Technology. Learners were supported by Samsung employee mentors and provided with seed funding and tablets with data connectivity to develop their prototypes. The 2026 edition saw significant growth, attracting 143 submissions from public schools across South Africa, compared with 47 entries in 2025. This growth reflects the increasing appetite amongst learners for opportunities to engage with STEM and develop solutions to challenges in their communities.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Gwarube emphasised the importance of partnerships between government, business, and communities in strengthening education and preparing young people for the future. She highlighted initiatives such as Solve for Tomorrow as examples of how collaboration can help build strong foundations for learners and expand opportunities within education. Through the partnership, Samsung and the DBE continue to promote practical STEM learning, innovation, and problem-solving, whilst equipping young people with skills and confidence to contribute to a sustainable digital future.