How can design disrupt conventional paradigms to reimagine a sustainable future that balances technological innovation, cultural stewardship, and empathetic, human-centred solutions to address the world’s pressing challenges?

The South Africa Student Design Competition, organised by DEFSA and funded by the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture (DSAC), has published the competition brief for 2025. This initiative provides a platform for high school learners, university students, and young professionals to showcase their design talents towards design innovations for societal impact.

As design practitioners and educators, DEFSA is excited to share the competition brief with you to encourage your students to take part and consider possible implementation in your teaching and learning activities in 2025.

Who can participate?

1.    High school learners
2.    Tertiary students
3.    Young professionals (aged 30 years or younger, with up to 2-3 years of experience).

Competition entries must be submitted by the 18th of July on the DEFSA Member Zone, and the winning entries will be announced and showcased at the 18th national DEFSA conference, DESIGN+, from 18 to 19 September.