Competition Terms and Conditions

About the Competition

The National Science Month (NSM) Logo Design Competition invites creative and innovative students from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges across South Africa to design the official logo that will represent National Science Month.

This national competition, coordinated by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF-SAASTA) seeks to create a distinctive visual identity that captures the spirit of science, innovation, inclusivity, and national participation in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI).

Through this initiative, DSTI and NRF-SAASTA aims to harness the creative talent of South Africa’s student community to develop a logo that will become a recognisable national symbol of science engagement and public participation in science.

CALL FOR ENTRIES

Students are invited to submit original logo designs that visually communicate the purpose and impact of National Science Month, which seeks to:

  • Promote public engagement with science.
  • Inspire interest in science, technology and innovation.
  • Celebrate scientific achievement and innovation in South Africa.
  • Encourage science participation among communities and youth.

Participants are encouraged to produce designs that are bold, innovative, and adaptable across digital, print, and promotional platforms.

About National Science Month

National Science Month (NSM) 2026 is a nationwide initiative that celebrates the role of science, technology, and innovation in society. Throughout the month, South Africans from all walks of life are encouraged to explore science through hands-on activities, public events, educational resources, competitions, and direct engagement with scientists.

NSM 2026 creates opportunities for learners, educators, students, scientists, institutions, and communities to connect with science in ways that are meaningful, inspiring, and relevant to everyday life.

For further insight into NSM and its objectives, Click this link for NSM Framework.

Competition Information

Competition start date:  14 May 2026.

Submission Deadline: 31 May 2026.

Eligibility: Registered South African students from HEIs and TVET colleges in South Africa.

Maximum Entries Per Participant: One (1) logo design per participant.

Competition Prize: R20 000 cash.

To ensure fairness and quality submissions, participants must adhere to the following rules:

  • Entries must be submitted via the official NRF-SAASTA website.
  • Only one (1) entry per participant will be permitted.
  • Submissions must be the original work of the applicant.
  • Team entries, collaborative submissions, or entries submitted on behalf of another person are strictly prohibited.
  • Designs must not contain trademarked or copyrighted imagery.
  • Designs must not have been previously published or used for purposes unrelated to National Science Month.
  • The use of computer-aided design software is permitted.

To ensure that the winning logo can be applied across multiple platforms, submissions must comply with the following specifications.

Image Quality

  • High-resolution image suitable for digital and print use.
  • Recommended minimum: 300 DPI.

Image Style

  • Floating image.
  • Transparent background preferred.

Accepted File Formats

Participants must submit:

  • The competition host may request the participant to submit editable source file(s) (AI, PSD, or SVG format) where necessary.

Maximum file size per upload: 5 MB per file. Files exceeding this limit may not be processed successfully.

Dimensions

Designs must be scalable and adaptable for use across:

  • Websites and digital platforms.
  • Print publications.
  • Event branding.
  • Promotional merchandise.
  • Social media campaigns.

Each submission must include a short written description explaining the concept behind the logo.

The description should outline:

  • The inspiration behind the design.
  • The symbolism of visual elements.
  • How the logo represents National Science Month. and the spirit of science in South Africa.

Recommended length: 150–300 words.

All submissions will be evaluated by an appointed judging panel consisting of experts in science communication, branding, design and innovation.

Entries will be assessed according to the following criteria:

Creativity and Originality

  • The uniqueness and innovation of the design concept.

Relevance to National Science Month

  • How well the design reflects science. engagement, discovery and innovation.

Conceptual Clarity

  • The strength and meaning behind the design elements.

Visual Impact

  • The design’s ability to attract attention and communicate effectively.

Adaptability and Usability

  • Suitability of the design across multiple platforms and formats.

By entering the competition, participants agree to the below terms and conditions:

SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY

Notice: National Science Month Logo Competition Closed

Thank you to everyone who participated in the logo competition. Please note that the competition is now officially closed, and no further entries will be accepted. We appreciate the interest and creativity shown by all participants.

Enquiries

Email : [email protected]
Call : (012) 392 9300