SATNAC 2024 Industry Solutions Challenge

The SATNAC 2024 Industry Solutions Challenge award ceremony will be held at Nombolo Mdhluli Conference Centre.

The SATNAC 2024 Industry Solutions Challenge

The SATNAC Industry Solutions Challenge invites postgraduate and undergraduate students who are passionate about innovation to participate in the SATNAC 2024 Industry Solutions Challenge where they will get the opportunity to tackle industry-inspired challenges and propose innovative solutions. Participants stand a chance to win high value prizes, skills development opportunities, all expenses paid conference attendance in Kruger National Park, and a chance to compete for the SATNAC 2024 Innovator Award.

SATNAC 2024 theme: The AI-Driven Hyperconnected Future co-creating shared value

2024 Challenge Technical Themes

Energy and Sustainability

This category aims at developing technologies that promote sustainability and efficient energy management. Participants can work on solutions related to renewable energy sources, advanced energy storage, smart grids, and sustainable practices in technology. The focus is on creating innovations that address environmental challenges and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Participants will delve into AI technologies and their wide-ranging applications. This category encourages exploration of machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and other AI techniques to solve complex problems and create intelligent systems. Ethical considerations and responsible AI development are also key aspects, ensuring that AI solutions are both innovative and aligned with societal values.

Internet of Things (IoT)

This category focuses on innovations that connect devices and systems to enhance various aspects of life and business operations. Participants are encouraged to explore how IoT can be applied to improve efficiency, automation, and connectivity in different environments. Whether it’s developing solutions for urban infrastructure, personal health, industrial processes, or smart homes, the IoT category offers a wide range of opportunities to demonstrate your creativity and technical skills.

Customer Experience (CX)

Participants in this category will work on technologies that transform how customers interact with services and products, aiming to enhance satisfaction and engagement. Innovations might include improving customer support systems, personalizing user experiences, gathering and analysing customer feedback, or leveraging AI to create more responsive and intuitive customer interactions. The goal is to rethink and enhance the customer journey across various touchpoints.

Networking Technologies

This category covers advancements in network infrastructure and services, focusing on the future of connectivity. Participants can explore innovations in mobile networks, such as the latest developments in 5G and beyond, as well as network security, software-defined networking (SDN), and edge computing. The emphasis is on creating more robust, secure, and efficient networks that can support the growing demands of modern applications and services.

Deliverables

Solutions should be submitted as:

Report outlining the solution (maximum 4 pages)

Summary presentation of the solution

Prototype or Proof of Concept (POC) (optional)

Important Dates

Deadline for expression of interest:

July 2, 2024

Challenge virtual kick-off:

July 5, 2024

Challenge virtual finale:

September 20, 2024

Challenge duration:

11 weeks

Awards:

October 6-9, 2024 | Skukuza, Kruger National Park

Prizes

Winning teams and individuals will attend SATNAC at the Nombolo Mdhluli Conference Centre, Skukuza Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park, where the SATNAC 2024 Industry Solutions Challenge award ceremony will be held and broadcast live on SABC

Winning individuals or teams will have the opportunity to contest for “SATNAC 2024 Innovator Award”

A customised skills development or work experience package designed by the topic sponsor

Tangible high-value prizes from the topic sponsor

Participation Criteria and Expressions of Interest

  • Undergraduate and Postgraduate students
  • Individuals, pairs or teams of up to 3 members

If you have any questions or experience any challenges please contact satnac@telkom.co.za. To participate, go to our participation form below:

Go to participation form

Note: Team members don't have to be from the same university/academic Institution.

You can find the detailed information in the document, downloadable below:

Download Challenge Document (PDF)