The third National Sustainable Development Goals Challenge crowns the University of Witwatersrand champions
Students from South Africa’s top universities showcased their innovative solutions for sustainability at the National SDG Challenge finale.
Students from national universities gathered to compete in the third National Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Challenge Finale, hosted by Soapbox South Africa.
Following eight weeks of research and preparation, the competition culminated in a Shark Tank style pitch event where teams presented their solutions to a jury of sustainability experts.
Read more: The Witwatersrand Embroiderers Guild looks forward to restarting gatherings in January
After thorough evaluation, the team from University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), in partnership with Anglo American Platinum, was crowned the 2024 winners.
As a reward for their innovative contributions, the winning students received a cash prize of R15 000, inspiring them to pursue purposeful careers in sustainability
This initiative connects businesses with university students to develop solutions aligned with the United Nations’ SDGs, aiming to foster a better world.
Multidisciplinary teams from the University of Johannesburg (UJ), Wits, and the University of Pretoria (UP) collaborated to address sustainability issues presented by leading South African organisations, including Standard Bank Group, Ivanhoe Mines, and Anglo American Platinum.
Also read: The Witwatersrand Embroidery Guild holds inaugural market in Linden
The challenges and solutions generated by these teams were directly linked to the SDGs, emphasising the importance of innovative thinking in tackling pressing global issues.
Amelia Francis, head of programme for the SDG Challenge SA, remarked, “With the 2030 deadline drawing closer, the urgency to deliver impactful solutions for the SDG targets has never been more critical. We are immensely proud of the outstanding talent, dedication, and strategic thinking displayed by the student consultant teams.”
Dr Manessah Alagbaoso, from Standard Bank Group, added, “The SDG Challenge SA is a credible way of creating awareness on the SDGs and stimulating private sector participation. It is refreshing to collaborate with university students on sustainability challenges.”
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
Related article: Wits and Netflix collaborate to support next generation of filmmakers
