Call for Participation

SATNAC 2026 Industry Solutions Challenge

The SATNAC Industry Solutions Challenge (ISC) 2026 invites undergraduate and postgraduate students from universities across South Africa to develop innovative, AI-enabled solutions to real-world challenges facing the telecommunications and ICT industry. Theme: AI as the Last Mile: Building the Sustainable Digital Enterprise.

About SATNAC

SATNAC is an annual conference held in South Africa where important stakeholders in telecommunications and technology, like researchers, students, industry experts, and government, come together to share ideas, present research, and discuss the future of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). It's a space where academic thinking meets industry practice, making it an important event for anyone interested in how technology is shaping the future in Africa and beyond.

SATNAC 2026 will take place at Champagne Sports Resort, R600, Central Drakensberg, Winterton, 3340, from 11 - 15 October 2026.

Why Participate?

Working in multidisciplinary teams, participants will collaborate with industry experts, researchers and mentors to solve authentic business challenges while strengthening their technical, innovation and professional skills. The challenge provides a unique opportunity to apply academic knowledge to industry problems and showcase innovative solutions on a national platform.

As a participant, you will have the opportunity to:

Solve real industry challenges provided by leading telecommunications and technology organisations.
Participate in industry-led masterclasses and mentorship sessions.
Develop practical skills in AI, innovation and solution development.
Collaborate with students from different disciplines and universities.
Build professional networks with industry leaders and researchers.
Showcase your innovation at one of South Africa's leading telecommunications conferences.
Compete for recognition and exciting prizes.

Who Can Participate?

The SATNAC Industry Solutions Challenge is open to all registered undergraduate and postgraduate students from accredited South African higher education institutions.

We welcome students from all academic disciplines and fields of study who are passionate about innovation, problem-solving and creating solutions that address real industry challenges.

Participants may register as an individual or as a team of two (2) or three (3) members.

Solution Development Journey

Participants will take part in a structured innovation and solution development programme designed to equip teams with the skills, tools and mentorship needed to solve real industry challenges.

The programme includes outcome-based innovation enablement masterclasses covering topics such as:

Problem Framing & Concept Design
Research Design & Validation
Business Modelling & Value Design
Technology & Architecture Design
Prototyping & MVP Development
Executive Pitch Readiness

Throughout the programme, teams will receive mentorship and feedback from industry professionals to refine their solutions.

Solution Deliverables

Project Report (6-8 Pages): A technical report outlining the problem, proposed solution, technical approach, innovation, business value and expected impact.
Proof of Concept (PoC): A functional prototype, simulation or demonstration validating the proposed solution.
Final Pitch: Present and demonstrate your solution to a panel of judges at the SATNAC Industry Solutions Challenge Finale.

Download Challenge Document (PDF)Download Challenge Application Form

Important Dates

The closing date for expression of interest for participation is

10 August 2026

Challenge Themes

AI-Enabled Intelligent Connectivity and Next-Generation Networks

Design intelligent communication networks that improve performance, automation, resilience, and customer experience.

AI-Powered Digital Infrastructure and Cloud Ecosystems

Develop intelligent digital infrastructure that enables scalable, resilient and sustainable digital enterprises.

AI for Sustainable Digital Transformation

Create AI-driven solutions that promote environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and responsible digital transformation.

AI-Driven Digital Enterprise and Intelligent Services

Transform organisations through AI-enabled automation, intelligent services, and enhanced customer experiences.

Trusted AI, Cybersecurity and Digital Trust

Develop secure, ethical, and trustworthy AI solutions that protect digital enterprises and critical infrastructure.

Future Technologies and Emerging Innovation

Explore disruptive technologies that will shape Africa's digital future.

Awards and Recognition

Winning teams will receive awards and recognition, which may include the following.

Monetary prizes or technology devices, generously sponsored by our industry partners

Professional development opportunities including internships, vacation work, mentorship programmes, and visits to innovation hubs and technology centres

Networking opportunities with industry leaders

Recognition at the SATNAC Awards Ceremony and the opportunity to showcase solutions during the SATNAC Poster Presentation Session