To ensure fairness and quality submissions, participants must adhere to the following rules:

• Entries must be submitted via the official NRF-SAASTA online competition email.
• Applicants may submit one (1) logo design.
• Submissions must be the original work of the applicant.
• Team entries are not permitted and will be disqualified.
• Designs must not contain trademarked or copyrighted imagery.
• Designs must not have been previously published or used for purposes unrelated to National Science Month.
• The use of computer-aided design software is permitted.

To ensure that the winning logo can be applied across multiple platforms, submissions must comply with the following specifications.

Image Quality

• High-resolution image suitable for digital and print use.
• Recommended minimum: 300 DPI

Image Style

• Floating image
• Transparent background preferred

Accepted File Formats

Participants must submit:

• JPEG or PNG file (preview version)
• Editable design file (e.g. AI, PSD, SVG)

Dimensions

Designs must be scalable and adaptable for use across:

• Websites and digital platforms
• Print publications
• Event branding
• Promotional merchandise
• Social media campaigns

Each submission must include a short written description explaining the concept behind the logo.

The description should outline:

• The inspiration behind the design
• The symbolism of visual elements
• How the logo represents National Science Month and the spirit of science in South Africa

Recommended length: 150–300 words

One (1) logo design per participants

To submit your entry, applicants must complete the online submission form and upload the required documentation.

Step 1: Register Your Profile

Provide the following details:

Personal Information

• Full Name
• ID Number or Passport Number
• Email Address
• Contact Number

Academic Information

• Institution Name (HEI or TVET College)
• Faculty / Department
• Student Number
• Qualification Level
• Year of Study

Applicants must upload proof of current student registration issued by their institution.

Step 2: Upload Your Logo Design

Participants may upload one (1) logo design.

For each design submission:

• Upload the logo file
• Upload the editable source file
• Provide a design concept description

Judging and evaluation process

All submissions will be evaluated by an appointed judging panel consisting of experts in science communication, branding, design and innovation.

Entries will be assessed according to the following criteria:

• Creativity and Originality.
• The uniqueness and innovation of the design concept.
• Relevance to National Science Month.
• How well the design reflects science engagement, discovery and innovation.
• Conceptual Clarity.
• The strength and meaning behind the design elements.
• Visual Impact.
• The design’s ability to attract attention and communicate effectively.
• Adaptability and Usability.
• Suitability of the design across multiple platforms and formats.

By entering the competition, participants agree to the following:

• The submitted design must be the original work of the applicant.
• NRF-SAASTA reserves the right to publish, reproduce, enhance, adapt or distribute submitted designs for National Science Month purposes.
• The winning design may be refined or adjusted by NRF-SAASTA for official brand implementation.

Participants are encouraged to download the full competition brief, which provides additional guidance on the objectives of National Science Month and design expectations.

Download: 

Before submitting your entry, please ensure that you have completed the following:

• Completed the online registration form
• Uploaded proof of student registration
• Uploaded logo design file
• Uploaded editable design file
• Provided a design concept description
• Confirmed acceptance of the competition rules and conditions (Provide PDF)