SET for a Quantum Leap

Celebrating 30 years of excellence in science, engineering and technology (SET) in South Africa... and beyond

- Jamaine Krige

It's South Africa's biggest night in science, where groundbreaking research meets recognition in a celebration that spans two cities, unites the country's brightest minds, ignites imaginations across the continent and shines an international spotlight on the power of local innovation.

The 2025 NSTF-South32 Awards the "Science Oscars" represent much more than a red-carpet affair. They're a statement of homegrown excellence, transformation and vision.

This year's ceremony was a triple celebration: the 27th edition of the prestigious awards, the 30th anniversary of the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) and a national focus on one of science's most transformative frontiers quantum technology.

Aptly themed "SET for a quantum leap", the event honoured individual and collective achievements while setting the tone for the next era of scientific discovery in SA.

"The awards showcase what SA is capable of," says NSTF executive director Jansie Niehaus. "We have world-class scientists and a wealth of talent to be proud of. It's a celebration of the passion, grit, and brilliance that keep our science, engineering, technology [SET] and innovation sectors moving forward."

From humble beginnings to global impact

What began in 1998 with just two awards one for an individual and one for an organisation has evolved into SA's largest and most inclusive platform for honouring science, engineering and technology. Today, the NSTF-South32 Awards span 18 awards across 16 categories, celebrating excellence from agriculture to artificial intelligence.

This year saw more than 90 finalists recognised for work that is impactful, interdisciplinary and often life-changing. Hosted simultaneously in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and broadcast live to global audiences, the ceremony has grown into a multimedia, multi-venue showcase of South African brilliance.