A nationally structured STEM and entrepreneurship programme for South African high school learners in Grades 8–11 — where curiosity becomes confidence, and science becomes real.
Hands-on workshops & competition
Grade 8 & 9 · Feb – AprilSTEM innovation & pitching challenge
Grade 10 & 11 · July – SeptSTEM Scholars presents the National STEM Discovery Initiative — a dynamic, curriculum-aligned science and innovation programme designed specifically for South African high school learners.
This initiative empowers learners to engage in real-world scientific investigations, develop critical thinking, and apply the scientific method through interactive workshops and national-level competitions.
Participating schools become part of a provincial and national network that supports excellence in science education, fosters innovation, and prepares learners to thrive in a knowledge-based, global economy.
"Tomorrow's scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs are sitting in today's classrooms — they just need the right exposure and guidance."
— STEM Scholars, 2026 Programme ProposalLearners engage directly with scientists, innovators, and industry professionals through workshops, lab sessions, and mentorship — gaining first-hand insight into the science and business of innovation.
Selected learners spend a day in research labs and innovation spaces at institutions like Wits University and the CSIR — seeing real experiments, real technology, and real possibilities beyond the classroom.
Participants stand a chance to win awards, provincial/national recognition, and vacation work opportunities at partners including Trichome Biotechnologies and The Obvious Choice. Winners receive one-on-one career coaching and lab tours.
Each programme is tailored to a key developmental stage in the learner's STEM journey — structured, accessible, and highly engaging for both learners and educators.
A hands-on science workshop and competition focused on developing experimental thinking, teamwork, and scientific communication — aligned to the Natural Sciences curriculum.
Learners apply the scientific method in real investigations, helping them strengthen classwork and make informed subject choices for Grade 10.
A STEM innovation and pitching challenge where learners identify real-world problems and develop science-based solutions with guided mentorship from scientists and entrepreneurs.
Learners build research, innovation, business planning, and public speaking skills — learning how to turn ideas into impact like professionals.
The STEM & Entrepreneurship Discovery Initiative connects learners with a world that's often invisible from inside a classroom — and equips them with skills that last far beyond the competition.
Learners apply the scientific method to genuine investigations, deepening their curriculum knowledge and building lasting scientific habits of mind.
Exposure to Wits University, the CSIR, and cutting-edge research facilities that show learners what a career in science can look like.
Grade 10 & 11 learners learn to identify real-world problems and build science-based solutions — the foundation of impactful entrepreneurship.
Provincial and national showcases, awards, vacation work placements, and career coaching — giving learners a meaningful professional edge.
Direct access to scientists and entrepreneurs who guide teams through project design, business thinking, and professional presentation skills.
Both programmes are structured to complement and strengthen what learners are already studying — not add pressure, but deepen understanding.
In Partnership With
A hands-on science competition for Grade 8 & 9 learners. Applications for the 2026 cohort are open now.
Apply NowApplications for this programme open later in 2026. Contact us to be notified when they do.
Notify Me When OpenImportant Notice Regarding Payment
The Trial by Science application includes a programme participation fee. You must only proceed with payment once both conditions below are met:
Any payment submitted without satisfying both of the above conditions will be forfeited and the associated application will not be processed. If you are unsure whether your school is registered, please contact us before paying.
Is your school participating? Learner applications are only open to students enrolled at schools that have officially registered to host the 2026 initiative. If your school has not yet signed up, encourage them to join — or contact us to arrange a school presentation. Scroll down for a ready-to-use email template to send to your principal or HOD.
If your school has not yet signed up, you can take the first step by forwarding the template email to your principal, Head of Science, or a science teacher you trust.
We are happy to present the programme at your school at no obligation. Once your school registers and an orientation has been held, learner applications for the relevant programme cycle will open.
Contact Us to Present at Your SchoolCopy and send to your principal or Head of Department:
Everything you need to know about the 2026 STEM Discovery Initiative. Can't find what you're looking for? Reach out directly.
Ask a QuestionWhether you're ready to bring a programme to your school or simply exploring what's possible, we'd love to hear from you. Let's build something meaningful for your learners — and for South Africa's scientific future.