Sifiso EdTech is excited to announce the launch of its Innovation Challenge 2024, a nationwide coding and robotics competition designed to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and technological innovation among learners across South Africa. This year’s theme, “Sustainable Development and Technological Innovation,” focuses on how robotics and coding can be used to address real-world challenges.

Says Xoliswa Mahlangu, Head of Digital Learning and Technology at Sifiso EdTech: “The Innovation Challenge 2024 is a unique opportunity for learners to engage with cutting-edge technology through hands-on projects in coding and robotics. The competition is structured around the theme of “Sustainable Development and Technological Innovation,” encouraging learners to create robotic solutions that address key issues such as:

• Renewable Energy: Innovations in harnessing and utilising renewable energy.
• Waste Management: Robotics solutions for improving recycling and waste reduction.
• Water Conservation: Technologies for conserving and managing water resources.
• Smart Cities: Creating systems that contribute to the development of smart, sustainable cities.
• Climate Action: Developing robotic solutions to combat climate change.”

Who Can Participate?

Sifiso EdTech’s Innovation Challenge is open to all South African learners from Grades 4 to 11. The competition is divided into four categories to cater to different academic levels:

• Foundation Phase: Grades 2-3
• Intermediate Phase: Grades 4-6
• Senior Phase: Grades 7-9
• FET Phase: Grades 10-11

Teams must consist of 2 to 4 learners, and participants are encouraged to form diverse teams that can tackle both technical and entrepreneurial aspects of the challenges.

Registration and Participation Details

Registration for the Innovation Challenge 2024 is free of charge. Schools can register their teams online before the registration closes on 20 August, Once registered, teams will receive detailed project guidelines, timelines, and access to resources that will assist them in their journey.

Projects must be submitted by 25 August for the 31 August robotics fair.

Why Participate?

By taking part in the Innovation Challenge 2024, learners will:

• Develop Essential Skills: Enhance their coding, robotics, and problem-solving abilities.
• Contribute to Real-World Solutions: Apply their knowledge to create impactful projects.
• Gain Recognition and Rewards: Compete for exciting prizes and the chance to showcase their innovations on a national stage.
• Prepare for the Future: Build skills critical for success in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Join Us in Innovating for a Better Tomorrow

The Sifiso EdTech Innovation Challenge 2024 is more than just a competition – it’s a movement towards a sustainable future. By empowering learners with the tools to innovate, we are preparing them to be the leaders and problem-solvers of tomorrow.

For more information download the guide book here: Innovation Challenge Introduction

Let’s code, innovate and build a brighter future together!