NSTF🇿🇦

The NSTF is a stakeholder forum for all South African organisations with an interest in science, engineering, technology and innovation.

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

We rounded off #Day1 with an inspiring visit to @SynexaLS !

Students had the opportunity to explore a world-class laboratory environment and learn how science, research, and innovation are used to improve lives. The visit provided valuable insight into the many exciting career opportunities available in STEM and highlighted the important role that scientists play in solving real-world challenges.

What an incredible way to end an action-packed first day of discovery, learning, and inspiration!
@SACNASP @dstigovza
#NSTFBrilliants2026 #STEMCareers #LifeSciences #FutureScientists #YouthInSTEM #Innovation #ScienceForImpact

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

#Day1 Continues

The #NSTFBrilliants2026 had an exciting opportunity to explore the world of 3D technology and Virtual Reality at the UWC Innovation Hub! Students stepped into immersive digital environments, experiencing firsthand how VR is transforming education, research, design, and problem-solving.

From exploring virtual worlds to learning how 3D technologies are used to create innovative solutions, learners discovered the endless possibilities of emerging technologies. The experience sparked curiosity, creativity, and excitement about the future of STEM and the role technology plays in shaping our world.

A truly unforgettable experience where innovation met imagination!
Thank you @UWCImmersivezone
@dstigovza @SACNASP @UWConline
#NSTFBrilliants2026 #UWCInnovationHub #VirtualReality #3DTechnology #STEMEducation #FutureInnovators #YouthInSTEM #Innovation #EmergingTechnologies #ExploreDiscoverLearn

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

#SecondStop
Ever wondered what your DNA can reveal? Our #NSTFBrilliants2026 learners got the chance to find out during an exciting visit to the Medical Genetics Department and Laboratory at @StellenboschUni!

#Students explored real laboratories, discovered how genetics helps doctors diagnose and treat diseases, and learned how scientists study DNA and inherited conditions. From healthcare to cutting-edge medical research, learners gained insight into the many career opportunities shaping the future of medicine.

A huge thank you to @raredgsa for hosting us and sharing your passion for genetics and improving lives through science.

What genetic discovery do you think has had the biggest impact on healthcare? Let us know below!
@SACNASP @dstigovza
#NSTFBrilliants2026 #MedicalScience #Genetics #YouthInSTEM #FutureScientists #STEMCareers #ScienceInAction #HealthcareInnovation #RareDiseaseAwareness #STEMEducation #NSTFAwards2026 #ScienceTour #YouthInSTEM #STEMCareers #FutureScientists #STEMSouthAfrica
#ScienceSA #ProudlySouthAfrican
#Brilliantsrock #IamBrilliant

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Welcome #BrilliantStudents2026

The 2026 #NSTFBrilliants Tour is officially underway! Students kicked off their STEM adventure at @StellenboschUni Department of Viticulture and Oenology, exploring how science and technology support sustainable agriculture and future STEM careers.
@SACNASP @dstigovza
#ScienceTour #STEMCareers #YouthInSTEM #STEMulator #Tour #futureleaders

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Be part of South Africa's biggest celebration of science, technology, engineering, and innovation!

The NSTF-South32 Awards, in partnership with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (@dstigovza ), are widely recognised as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. This prestigious event honours the country's outstanding achievers in science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation.

📅 Thursday, 16 July 2026

Experience the excitement live from Cape Town and Johannesburg as leaders from academia, government, industry and the broader SET community come together to celebrate excellence and innovation.

Gather your colleagues, partners, or guests and enjoy an unforgettable evening by reserving your table or individual seats at the gala dinner.

Seats are limited – book your table today and be part of the celebration!

Book now: https://t.co/nYV0BG0JyQ

@South_32 #NSTFSouth32Awards #ScienceOscars #SETInnovation #Innovation #Science #Technology #Engineering #Research #SouthAfrica #DSTI #CelebrateExcellence

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Applauding Prof Elena Moore’s remarkable achievement! She is a finalist in the Special Annual Theme Award: Healthy Ageing category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards, known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

She is a Professor of Sociology at the University of Cape Town (@UCT_news) and a Principal Investigator at the Family Caregiving of Older Persons Programme. For her contribution in revealing the hidden burden of family elder care in South Africa (SA) and turning real-life, longitudinal evidence into practical policy solutions that promote fairer support and dignified ageing.

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

@South_32 @dstigovza #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #Innovation

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Congratulations to the International Longevity Centre South Africa (ILCSA), a finalist in the Special Annual Theme Award: Healthy Ageing category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards, known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

With Optentia Research Unit, @theNWU - North-West University – Prof Jaco Hoffman (DPhil, University of Oxford), Co-director: ILCSA; Professor: Socio-Gerontology, Optentia Research Unit, NWU; Lead: Ageing and Generational Dynamics in Africa (AGenDA) programme (Optentia/NWU); Professorial Fellow: Institute of Population Ageing, University of Oxford; Coordinator: African Research on Ageing Network (AFRAN). For their contribution in linking African ageing evidence to pan-African and global policy networks to deliver Africa-ready healthy ageing approaches.

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

@South_32 @dstigovza #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #Innovation

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Applauding the Centre for Wetland Research and Training (WetResT), a finalist in the Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) Award category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards, known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

Dr Lulu Pretorius is the Executive Director at the WETREST Centre for Wetland Training; Freelance work: Climate Adaptation Specialist, Wetland Specialist and Project Manager; Postdoctoral Research Fellow: (@UKZN) University of KwaZulu-Natal. For strengthening southern Africa’s water security and ecosystem resilience through wetland science and capacity development.

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/g9TmmGqyTL

@South_32 @dstigovza #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #Innovation

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Congratulations to Advancing Knowledge NPC, a finalist in the Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) Award category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards, known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

Prof M Shaheed Hartley is the Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). For building world-class science learning spaces that transform under-resourced schools into hubs of STEM excellence and opportunity (STEM = science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

@South_32 @dstigovza #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #Innovation

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Celebrating Institute for Coastal and Marine Research, NMU, a finalist in the Communication Award category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards, known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

Dr Denise Schael is aDirector at the Nelson Mandela University (NMU). For translating complex marine and coastal research into accessible knowledge through coordinated media, public engagement and education initiatives.

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

@South_32 @dstigovza #South32Partner #ProudlySAof #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #Scienc #Innovation

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Congratulations to Ms Shakira Hoosain, a finalist in the Communication Award category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards, known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

Ms Hoosain is a Campaign Strategist and Senior Copywriter: Editor: Research Matters and https://t.co/56HN1Binlh magazine, University of Pretoria (@UPTuks). For the development of a multimedia science communication platform translating academic research into accessible public knowledge, amplifying impact through storytelling, media engagement and integrated digital formats.

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

@South_32 @dstigovza #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #Innovation

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Applauding Prof Michael Bruton’s remarkable achievement. He is a finalist in the Communication Award category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards, known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

He is a Professional Science Communicator: Mike Bruton Imagineering, MTE Studios and formula D. For his significant contributions to making science accessible to the public.

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

@South_32 @dstigovza #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #InnovationFo

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Celebrating Pulego Technologies, a finalist in the Innovation Award: Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise (SMME) category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards, known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

Mr Tshepo Thlaku, CEO and Co-Founder. For developing a smart city digital platform that improves how municipalities and communities communicate and respond to service delivery issues.

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

Sponsored by the National Intellectual Property Management Office (@NIPMO ) since 2025.

@South_32 @dstigovza #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #Innovation

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Celebrating Nanosene (Pty) Ltd, a finalist in the Innovation Award: Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise (SMME) category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards, known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

Dr Gestél Kuyler, CEO: Co-Founder and Director. For building Africa’s first bespoke polymer innovator, enabling more reliable
drug discovery through next-generation nanodisc technology.

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

Sponsored by the National Intellectual Property Management Office (@NIPMO) since 2025.

@South_32 @dstigovza #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #Innovation

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Congratulations to AlrSynQ Systems (Pty) Ltd, a finalist in the Innovation Award: Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise (SMME) category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards, known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

Prof Bruce Mellado is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at AIrSynQ and Executive Director at The South African Consortium of Air Quality Monitoring (SACAQM). For turning SACAQM/AIr innovation into a scalable, AI-powered environmental risk service that helps organisations act early to protect health, safety and productivity across workplaces and communities.

Read more about each finalist and their work :https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

Sponsored by the National Intellectual Property Management Office (@NIPMO) since 2025.

@South_32 @dstigovza #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #Innovation

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Applauding Agrishelves Marketplace, a finalist in the Innovation Award: Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise (SMME) category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards, known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

Mr Lindelani Xhanti is the Chief Innovation Manager. For revolutionising South African agriculture by merging digital commerce with climate‑smart innovation, empowering farmers while driving Africa’s green economy.

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

Sponsored by the National Intellectual Property Management Office (@NIPMO) since 2025.

@South_32 @dstigovza #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #Innovation

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Celebrating Dr Kelley Reynolds-Clausen, a finalist in the Innovation Award: Corporate Organisation category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

Dr Clausen is a Senior Consultant, @Eskom_SA. For transforming power station ash from an environmental waste problem into a valuable construction material.

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

Sponsored by the National Intellectual Property Management Office (@NIPMO) since 2025.

@South_32 @dstigovza #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #Innovation

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Applauding the Department of Electrical Engineering, @unisa - University of South Africa, a finalist in the Innovation Award: Corporate Organisation category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards.These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

Prof Lukas Willem Snyman is a retired professor at UNISA. For initiating and establishing an Innovation Laboratory at the Department of Electrical Engineering at UNISA, generating and filing 14 local patents and securing six international patents in optoelectronic devices over the past 10 years.

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

Sponsored by the National Intellectual Property Management Office (@NIPMO) since 2025.

@South_32 @dstigovza #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #Innovation

[NSTF🇿🇦 @NSTF_SA]

Applauding Dr Herkulaas Combrink, a finalist in the NSTF-SADiLaR Research Software: Human Language Technologies (HLT) Award category of the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards, known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa. These prestigious awards recognise and promote outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation by related professionals, practitioners, teams, partnerships and organisations in South Africa.

Prof Combrink Co-Director: Interdisciplinary Centre for Digital Futures; Senior Lecturer: Economics and Management Sciences, @UFSUpdates-University of the Free State. For the development of ‘The Lebitso App’, a research software platform for large-scale South African Sign Language (SASL) human language technology development, using computational infodemiology to analyse, structure, and model language in digital information ecosystems.

Read more about each finalist and their work: https://t.co/TDNOjbQ0J8

New in 2026.

Sponsored by the South African Centre for Digital Language Resourcesr (@SADiLaR_ZA ).

@South32 @dstigovza #NSTFawards2026 #HealthyAgeing #SETexcellence #ScienceOscarsSA #South32Partner #ProudlySA #Innovation