Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a global leader in IT services, consulting, and business solutions, has announced the winners of the third annual South African edition of TCS Sustainathon™. This problem-solving competition encourages students to harness technology in tackling real-world sustainability challenges.
Innovative Solutions for a Sustainable Future
Team Nexura, comprising students from the University of Cape Town, WITS, and Nelson Mandela University, claimed the top prize with their ground-breaking project, Vitals-Vault. Designed to address the pressing need for vaccine storage in rural Africa, Vitals-Vault is a portable, energy-efficient cooling solution aimed at minimizing both medical and energy wastage. For their innovative concept, the team was awarded a grand prize of ZAR 35,000.
This year’s competition focused on the theme ‘Affordable and Clean Energy’, a critical issue given that approximately 43% of Africa’s population lacks access to electricity. The overwhelming response to the challenge saw over 180 students from more than 40 universities and colleges participate, with 10 finalist teams from 18 institutions showcasing their pioneering solutions at the Grand Finale.
Recognizing Young Innovators
Langa Dube, Director and Country Head for TCS South Africa & Rest of Africa, praised the ingenuity and dedication of the participants, stating, “Congratulations to Team Nexura for their exceptional idea. Their passion and technological creativity highlight the potential of young people in addressing the country’s energy challenges. The quality of solutions presented at the Grand Finale was outstanding, reinforcing the hope for a more sustainable and prosperous future driven by innovation.”
The competition also recognized two other standout teams:
Second Prize: Team Green Energy Engineers won ZAR 25,000 for their project Waste to Watts, which focuses on developing bio-batteries using organic waste to generate electricity.
Third Prize: Team South Solar Synergy secured ZAR 15,000 for their concept Ubuntu Solar Farm, aimed at enhancing community access to solar energy.
In addition to their cash prizes, the winners may have the opportunity to intern with TCS South Africa, gaining valuable experience to further develop their solutions into viable, real-world applications. All remaining finalists received ZAR 7,000 each, along with certificates and engraved trophies in recognition of their efforts.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Innovation
The South African edition of TCS Sustainathon™ was made possible through the support of program partners Pick n Pay and Geekulcha, along with incubation partners Wits University, SkillsLab, and the Centre for Student Development. These collaborations provided participants with resources and mentorship to develop innovative energy solutions that can contribute to a sustainable future.
As a global initiative, TCS Sustainathon™ continues to empower young minds to use digital technologies in solving social, economic, and environmental challenges. The competition has previously focused on themes such as ‘Zero Hunger’ and ‘Sustainable Water and Sanitation Management’. By bringing together students, businesses, non-profits, and government entities, the challenge fosters meaningful collaboration to drive positive change worldwide.
With each edition, TCS Sustainathon™ reaffirms its commitment to nurturing the next generation of change makers, proving that innovation and technology can be powerful forces in building a more sustainable world.
Main Image: TCS
